Mixed emotions; The Middle East.(mixed reactions in Middle East over terrorist attack on the United States' World Trade Center and Pentagon)(Brief Article)

Economist (US), The, September, 2001

Gaza's joy faded

The Israelis claim vindication. Arabs fear the worst

THE Middle East reacted to America's tragedy with a predictable jumble of emotions. In Israel, there was universal horror and sympathy, tinged with more than a hint of "We told you so." The Palestinians passed swiftly through several phases, ending with a near-universal feeling of foreboding and dismay.

The constant refrain in Israel, right across the political spectrum, was "Now the world will understand us." The attacks on America, said the daily Ma'ariv, were "the most important public relations act ever committed in our favour." If the attack on the twin towers is America's second Pearl Harbour, Israel sees itself as a latter-day Britain, fighting alone against the...