President Bush also struck a conciliatory note, saying that it was clear that Hamas's performance was a triumph of democracy, among Palestinians in particular and Arabs in general, and a rebuke to "the old guard there." It was striking that his tone was less one of confrontation than of inviting Hamas to change its ways while the world watches.
"There was a peaceful process as people went to the polls, and that's positive," Mr. Bush said. "But what's also positive is that it's a wakeup call to the leadership. Obviously people were not happy with the status quo."
He added that Hamas could not be "a partner in peace" if it continued to advocate the destruction of Israel or harbored "an armed wing." But his tone almost suggested that the United States would have an open mind as the Palestinians form their government and take actions.
"There was a peaceful process as people went to the polls, and that's positive," Mr. Bush said. "But what's also positive is that it's a wakeup call to the leadership. Obviously people were not happy with the status quo."
He added that Hamas could not be "a partner in peace" if it continued to advocate the destruction of Israel or harbored "an armed wing." But his tone almost suggested that the United States would have an open mind as the Palestinians form their government and take actions.