Ze’ev Sternhell, Haaretz, June 30:
As a result of the situation that has already been created, the border between what is permissible and what is forbidden in civilized society, even when that society is compelled to deal with terror, will be completely erased. Already now, in Gaza, the line separating legitimate combat from actions meant to break the civilian population, is disappearing, as is the distinction between fighting that serves a real national interest and the desire to compensate the battered ego of the army, and the distinction between the supreme responsibility for the life of every soldier and his personal liberty, and the urge to seek retribution and vengeance. But the motive for vengeance has never been a replacement for policy. Judging by what is happening right now, our government is not capable of much more.…