Why Israel acted now: To avoid an Obama veto

Many Middle East experts believe that Israel timed its move against Hamas, which began with airstrikes on Dec. 26, 25 days before Mr. Bush leaves office, with the expectation of such backing in Washington. Israeli officials could not be certain that President-elect Barack Obama, despite past statements of sympathy for Israel’s right of self-defense, would match the Bush administration’s unconditional endorsement.