_{By Haaretz Editorial}
 

Hamas' takeover of the Gaza Strip should have surprised no one. The signs had been there for a long time. The policy of "strengthening the moderates and isolating the extremists" that the Olmert government adopted with American backing has taken a mortal blow. The economic and political boycott of Hamas and its government did not weaken Palestinian support for the movement, nor did these moves soften its positions.

Now there is a hostile entity on Israel's southern border, headed by an armed group that opposes the existence of Israel and refuses to recognize it. This is precisely the difference between Hamas and Fatah, headed by Palestinian Authority Chairman Mahmoud Abbas, who is obligated to the peace process and seeks a historic compromise between the Palestinian national movement and Zionism. Hamas, which views the destruction of Israel as a religious imperative, at most speaks of a cease-fire.

Abbas is not the "strong man" Israel hoped would lead the PA, prevent terror and "bring order" to the territories. But under the circumstances, Abbas has become the last chance for a diplomatic process to divide the land and establish a peaceful, terror-free Palestinian state alongside Israel.

It is in Israel's supreme interest that the West Bank not follow in Gaza's footsteps. But for this to be realized, the Olmert government must change fundamentally and immediately its approach to relations with the Palestinians. The harsh scenes from Gaza have illustrated that empty declarations about "assisting the moderates" and pledges to "ease restrictions" are not enough.

The reshuffled government, with Ehud Barak as defense minister, must draft a new and credible policy to strengthen Abbas and show the Palestinian public that moderation is worthwhile, and that there is an alternative to Hamas rule and the PA disintegrating. Such a policy must include freezing settlements, dismantling outposts, releasing Palestinian tax money and actually removing roadblocks and easing movement.

The steps to improve the life of Palestinians in the West Bank must be accompanied by renewing final status talks in order to present a real diplomatic horizon, not just foggy declarations. Such negotiations would be bolstered by a more positive Israeli attitude toward the Arab-Saudi peace initiative, which would give regional backing to renewing the diplomatic process. At the same time, pressure must continue on the Hamas leaders in Gaza. They must be treated based on their actions, and military entanglement in the Strip must be avoided.

Ehud Olmert has proved in recent weeks that he is a skilled politician who keeps his cool under pressure and knows how to maneuver the political system in Jerusalem. Starting now, his leadership will be tested in the face of this serious political and security crisis, which will require no small amount of creativity, openness and flexibility from Israel.

Olmert must not miss what may be the last opportunity for an arrangement with the Palestinians, in his efforts to buy time and satisfy his right-wing coalition partners, as he has done so far. This is the time for national leadership, and not for tricks to stay in power.