I think things can still move forward with the peace process despite the Hamas victory. The very fact that there were democratic elections is encouraging. Let's be clear, Hamas did not win because of their hardline policies... they won because people were sick of corruption and incompetance of the Fatah party. More than 70% of the population indicated that they wanted Hamas to moderate their hardline stance on issues. Even Hamas themselves have made attempts to set up a coalition with Fatah members.
This is the time for diplomacy in the truest sense. I hope that a hardline approach from either Hamas or the Western governments do not win the day. It will be difficult for Hamas to make a major change in their approach without alienating some of their supporters and possibly fracturing their government. We should send out cautious feelers and try to work out some compromises behind the scenes. If Hamas sends back the right signals, we shouldn't cut off aid or ties immediately.
This is the time for diplomacy in the truest sense. I hope that a hardline approach from either Hamas or the Western governments do not win the day. It will be difficult for Hamas to make a major change in their approach without alienating some of their supporters and possibly fracturing their government. We should send out cautious feelers and try to work out some compromises behind the scenes. If Hamas sends back the right signals, we shouldn't cut off aid or ties immediately.