Abbas' dismal failure at the United Nations

He must also make it abundantly clear to Hamas that the PA will not come to its aid under the false pretenses of a unity government unless Hamas cease and desist from provoking Israel and gradually demilitarize Gaza; otherwise, no power can force Israel to lift the blockade.

The Arab states and especially Egypt, who quietly hailed Israel's inflicting such a punishing blow on Hamas, are as eager as Israel to emasculate Hamas.

Unfortunately, there is only a small chance that the negotiations in Egypt could lead to such an outcome. But then, this is the only outcome that can save Abbas politically and spare the Palestinians in Gaza from another disastrous confrontation with Israel.

This may well be his last opportunity - one he cannot afford to miss.