The winners:
1. Israel – Restored deterrent against Hamas, uncovered and destroyed terror tunnels, nation highly unified.
2. Egypt – Sisi regime’s first test on the international stage boosts credibility and stature of new government
3. Russia, Iran – World largely ignores probable war crime of MH17; grants extension on Iran nuclear talks
4. Sen. Rand Paul – Argument for reduced U.S. aid, and increased independence, for Israel gains credibility
5. Sen. Ted Cruz – Only GOP presidential contender to oppose John Kerry’s confirmation as Sec’y of State
The losers:
1. Hamas – No significant achievements in the war, increasingly hated by Palestinians, brutality exposed
2. Obama, Kerry – Foolhardy push for premature ceasefire, actions criticized even by Palestinian Authority
3. Palestinians – Hope for a sovereign state fades amidst Hamas attacks on major Israeli population centers
4. Hillary Clinton – Struggles to offer coherent, consistent, competent response to the ongoing conflict
5. UN – Rockets found in UN schools, Human Rights Council destroys credibility further with anti-Israel vote