Upset Victory

Our report on the surprise win by the militant Islamic party Hamas in the Palestinian legislative elections prompted worried reaction from readers who feared for the prospects of peace in the Middle East. Other readers hoped that governing would force Hamas to eventually moderate its anti-Israeli policies

After the militant organization Hamas won a clear majority of the seats in the Palestinian parliament [Feb. 6], its critics immediately denounced the election results. The Israeli Cabinet said it will not negotiate with a Palestinian administration that calls for the destruction of the state of Israel. If Israel...