Ambiguity

In this opinion piece in the Palestinian daily Al Ayyam, the writer criticizes the ambiguity in Hamas's political program. He rightly points out that historically speaking, ambiguity has worked in favor of the stronger side, i.e. Israel, which could impose its own interpretations. (Arabic)

I watched an interview this morning on Al Jazeera with Ismail Haniyeh, the new head of government. In response to the question "What is Hamas planning to do in response to Israel's unilateral plans?" he responded by saying that he's just finished discussing that with Abu Mazen and they decided that Abu Mazen will make diplomatic contacts to present the Palestinian perspective. Then he added, and we are going to do that as well.

So diplomacy is, after all, the answer?

This was the most specific thing he had to say. The rest was broad and ambiguous.