LATEST FROM DALLAS HAMAS TRIAL: During the trial in Chicago this year of Muhammad Salah, not only did the judge found that Hamas is a political party, but the defense is also trying to claim as part of their defense that the Israel Lobby was at work. The defendant was found innocent.

Not surprisingly, in the face of facts, the defense in the current Dallas case is using the Israel Lobby defense as well.

[Dr. Matthew] Levitt, the prosecution’s first witness, testified as a HAMAS expert about the group’s methods of recruitment and their violent attacks. In contrast to descriptions by defense attorneys in Tuesday’s opening statements, where the first Intifadah was described as occasional rock throwing by children, Levitt explained to jurors that “HAMAS’ role in the first Intifadah was much more violent then rock throwing.” “They were involved in shooting attacks,” he said.

Levitt also spent considerable time discussing the charitable Zakat Committees. He called them “HAMAS’ most effective tool… they build grassroots support for the organization…(and) provide a logistical support mechanism to the terrorism wing by providing day jobs to HAMAS terrorists.”

In her cross examination, Nancy Hollander, defense attorney for Shukri Abu Baker, focused on Levitt’s employment with the Washington Institute, which was founded by Martin Indyk, as a way of questioning his objectivity. Indyk previously served as U.S. Ambassador to Israel. Hollander also asked Levitt a series of questions about his relationship with the American Israel Public Affairs Committee and the Jewish Federation, both of which have hosted Levitt as a speaker.

In the absence of evidence, alot of smoke and mirrors will be used by the Hamas attorneys.

See the New York Sun for background on the case.

Technorati Tag: Hamas and Holy Land Foundation for Relief and Development and CAIR.