(2004-02-12) -- Following Israeli attacks in the Gaza strip yesterday, the leader of Hamas, the Palestinian social services agency, said Israel’s action "has finally forced us to reluctantly resort to violence."

"Apparently, our years of sincere negotiations have failed to win over the Israelis," said Hamas leader Mahmoud Zahar, "As abhorrent as violence is to us, we are left with no other option but self-defense. It may take us a while to muster the weapons and soldiers, but we will eventually retaliate."