that makes much sense is that the Palestineans want to make Israel into a pyriah state in the eyes of the world. It seems they don't just want an independent homeland. Instead, it seems they want to make Israel an international outcast like South Africa was before. It certainly has worked in some areas. By pushing Israel to the limits and beyond, they're making themselves look like the victim. If they succeed in making Israel a pyriah, then you can expect international boycotts of Israeli products and perhaps an end to US aid. That might be enough to destroy Israel - something none of the Arab nations have a chance of doing on the battlefield.

Off hand, I can't think of too many examples of where Moslem militants have used the non-violent approach other than perhaps some of the people who worked with Gandhi to gain independence from Britain in the 1940s. It just doesn't seem to be a play in their handbook. Perhaps they believe the non-violent approach makes them look weak. If so, then they're mistaken. It took a hell of a lot of guts for the Indian people to stand up to the British or for American blacks to stand up to the likes of Bull Connor, the KKK, and George Wallace without striking back.