Cynics – and if you’re not one you probably haven’t been watching Middle East politics long enough – are pointing to the timing of the Israeli assault, with Likud seeking re-election in January in straitened economic times. Benjamin Netanyahu may not have a Hurricane Sandy on his side, but he can summon up a Pillar of Cloud to help him look like an authoritative national leader rather than a party politician seeking votes. And Hamas will do quite nicely by reprising its guerrilla warrior routine, in contrast to its recent, less successful role as the elected government of a demoralised people.