[annalex]

I apologize for not responding to everyone: my view is unpopular and I cannot find time for every post directed at me.

Proportionality and discrimination between combatants and civilians have been the civilizational norm since the Middle Ages. No one has rescinded those, and no one can. The barbarity of the opponent is not an excuse to lower the civilizational standard.

Proportionality does not mean symmetry. One can use a more effective defensive weapon. It means that the response should be measured to the objective of the war. For example, if the objective is to eliminate a military threat, it is proportionate to destroy weapons, supply routes and military personnel, but not government structures or civilian areas. (Link)

[MeanWestTexan]

War is about crushing another people and their spirit, by whatever means most effective.

Alas, I believe the Israelis are too civilized to do the necessary.

[Chunga]

Hamas stores and hides their weaponry within civilian areas and in urban centers.

You are one dense "Palistinian" sympathizer.

[VeniVidiVici]

For example, if the objective is to eliminate a military threat, it is proportionate to destroy weapons, supply routes and military personnel, but not government structures or civilian areas.

Sounds great on paper, doesn't it? It reality it's much harder to do so. Especially when the "fighters" are hiding behind women and children.

[NYC GOP Chick]

For example, if the objective is to eliminate a military threat, it is proportionate to destroy weapons, supply routes and military personnel, but not government structures or civilian areas.

But what happens when the government IS the terrorists, as in the case of Hamas in Gaza?

And then there's the fact that the oh so manly terrorists hide among civilians. Whether you want to accept it or not, the IDF has been quite accurate in pinpointing the terrorists and minimizing civilian casualties as best as they can.