Another radical Middle East government?
I am not an expert on the Middle East but two thoughts went through my mind upon hearing of Hamas' almost certain victory in the Palestinian elections:
Firstly, I was completely negative. I worry that Hamas will become a third radical government in the Middle East (with Syria and Iran---which is almost Middle East). I considered that perhaps these States were becoming radically altered in their mindset due to anti-US sentiment and that their peoples were rebelling against the authority of George Bush due to his Iraq venture. A radical Middle East could upset the balance of power in the region and, God forbid, put the US and its allies into a really awkward position. Imagine, if you will, the Arab states rising up against the West. It will not be a small problem, especially when we consider that the US is so committed in Iraq (manpower could be very stretched!).
Secondly, I thought, optimistically, that Hamas might come to its senses once in power (They say they cannot deal with Israel but how can they avoid it?). Perhaps when they look at the big picture they will become more responsible and rein in their bombers and radical fighters. Perhaps Hamas will form a responsible government that can influence the masses and calm them. Perhaps Hamas will become the New Hamas?
I could be in cloud cuckoo land, but for the sake of peace, I hope I'm not.