How Long Have We Been Trying To 'Bolster' Abbas?

Better question: Was there ever a time that there has not been talk about the need to bolster Abbas. Apparently, from the beginning it was clear that Abbas is the kind of leader who cannot stand on his own two feet.

Abbas served as the first Prime Minister of the Palestinian Authority from March to October 2003, when he resigned.

Christian Science Monitor, July 2, 2003:

The subtle campaign to bolster Abbas
Bush tries to solidify Palestinian leader's position without making it look like he's tool of Washington.

And nothing says support for Abbas like releasing terrorists (August 5, 2003):

A summit between Palestinian and Israeli leaders was cancelled today as the US-backed road map to peace ran into further trouble.

Mahmoud Abbas and Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon were due to meet but both sides are understood to be angry over recent developments.

Palestinian sources said their side had pulled out because of Israel's decision to release 440 Palestinian prisoners - about 100 fewer than originally thought - and with few long-term prisoners among them.

Two years later, Abbas was elected President of the Palestinian National Authority (PNA) on January 9, 2005.

ABC News on February 9, 2005:

Commentary: Action Needed to Bolster Abbas

United States, Israel Need to Engage and Offer More Than Compliments and Encouragement

By June 3, 2005:

Inmates freed to bolster Abbas

Israel released 398 Palestinian prisoners yesterday in an attempt to support Mahmoud Abbas, the Palestinian president.

Mr Abbas, who came out of hospital yesterday after heart surgery, faces difficulties because Palestinians believe his election has not led to any real improvement in their lives or an easing of the occupation.

The prisoner release is the second by Israel this year but critics claim it consists mainly of petty criminals and those near the end of their sentences. Few are political activists or those convicted of political violence against Israel.

Obviously, it didn't take long at all to realize the need to strengthen an obviously weak leader.

But if the need to unilaterally strengthen Abbas is so great, what good is he to either the US or Israel now--and how great a danger will he be to whatever status quo is foisted upon Israel should a Palestinian state be created?

Crossposted at Soccer Dad

Technorati Tag: Abbas.