DID SHEIKH HAMAD ALTHANI'S VISIT TO GAZA SPARK A CONFLICT?

The question is a simple one.

Did the Sheikh of Qatar's visit to Gaza spark the current round of fighting?

Perhaps.

I would say it was absolutely a factor that must be weighed into the analysis.

I have a few other questions that, in my opinion, are more important.

Why?

Why now?

Why not the West Bank as well?

Why appear as if Qatar is leaning towards Hamas and not Abbas?

What does Saudi think of this move?

Did they have a vote in the visit?

What are Iran's thoughts on the Qatar visit to Gaza?

And last but not least, did the Sheikh just buy Hamas off to keep them from supporting Iran?

Now.... that is the real question!!! and nobody seems to be asking it.

As for the current exchange of fire between Israel and Hamas and more likely the Islamic Jihadist groups in Gaza, it should calm down quickly; at least let's hope so!

Egypt, and I have said this over and over again, doesn't want a conflict between Hamas and Israel... at least not yet!!!!

I am sure there is a full court press by the Egyptians to calm this series of events down as soon as possible.

As for Hamas, it scored a major victory not only in the region, but over the PA / Fatah / by having this Qatar visit take place.

Qatar, who has been more than ambitious in the region for the past two years, may be showing its value to regional issues by boldly going into Gaza and buying Hamas loyalty.

How much "coordination" took place between Egypt and Qatar and Saudi on this media event is going to need to be reviewed.

I would be willing to bet, the Ottoman's were not part of the planning phase.

So, the exchange of fire between Israel and Gaza / Hamas / Islamic Jihadist / should calm down quickly for no other reason than it was probably not in the Qatari " Plan".

We shall see what Iran thinks of this event.

None of this is being accomplished to favor Iranian interest.

http://www.jpost.com/MiddleEast/Article.aspx?id=289141