Tel Aviv blast: Your reaction

A suicide bomber has targeted people queuing to enter a nightclub in the Israeli city of Tel Aviv, weeks after Israeli and Palestinian leaders agreed to cut violence and pursue efforts towards peace.

Israel has warned that its fight against terrorism is far from over.

Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas has pledged to track down those responsible for the attack.

But how easy will it be to resume peace moves after the latest bombing? How effective can the new Palestinian leadership be in cracking down on militants? Send us your comments using the form on the right.

This debate has now closed. Thank you for your comments.

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The following comments reflect the balance of opinion we received:

A few more such atrocities and the latest hope for peace will be destroyed Andrew G, Orpington, UK

A few more such atrocities and the latest hope for peace will be destroyed. Israel will continue to be Israel, its people living in a rather dangerous yet prosperous, democratic country, while the Palestinians can continue their miserable existence under Israeli occupation. Who needs the peace progress to succeed more?
Andrew G, Orpington, UK

Both Israel and the Palestinians must see through this ploy to derail the peace process. Abbas must reign in his rogue elements even if it means using force. Israel must help by continuing to pursue peace as long as Abbas is forceful against his own fanatics. I often disagree with President Bush, but it's time for the Middle East to become a democratic society.
Joao, Sacramento, USA

It's amazing to see so many here condone the murder of innocents queuing up at a nightclub. The extremists that resort to this type of carnage are despicable, but the attempts by their apologists to qualify their actions are equally as sad.
Angelo Morata, Chicago, IL, USA

As a Palestinian, I am sick and tired of people going on about cracking down on militants and rounding them up. I am aware that most people who think the problem lies in taking extra security measures do mean well, but one needs to look beyond the headlines and understand why people take such desperate acts in this prolonged conflict. Contrary to public opinion perception, Israel has intensified its oppressive measures since the ceasefire which Abu Mazen reached with the opposition last month. No body seems to mention the 18 Palestinians who have been killed by the Israeli army since the ceasefire, including 3 children. Of course we haven't heard any condemnation by the US or any of the people on this website. Is it another case of double standard?
Samia Hassa, Ramallah, Palestinian Territories

The clock is ticking for Abbas. We have not seen any serious response yet. If he proves impotent in the face of this challenge to the Palestinian Authority, the Palestinians will have no one to represent them in their claim to statehood. Let us hope Abbas rises to the occasion!
Seth, WA, USA

As long as Israel continues to build settlements in the West Bank there will be no possibility of any settlement much less any belief that Israel is sincere in wanting a Palestine State.
N Rama, Auckland/NZ

Now is the time for Mahmoud Abbas to condemn this attack and take swift and strong action against those who planned and perpetrated it. There is no rationalization or justification for the deliberate murder of innocent civilians. My heart goes out to all the families affected by this tragedy.
Carlos, San Carlos, Costa Rica

All great changes this world has seen in history did not come without sacrifice. Let us finally see these Palestinians rise up against these fanatics amongst them loud and clear in a fight to destroy them. Let the Palestinians who oppose the violence show the world they will help send a message to these extremists with whatever it takes.
Oren Cohen, Miami, USA

A cowardly act by twisted individuals who want anything but peace Benjamin Black, Manchester

A cowardly act by twisted individuals who want anything but peace. The best thing that both Sharon and Abbas can do is condemn the act, hunt those responsible and carry on the path to peace regardless - otherwise the terrorists will have won.
Benjamin Black, Manchester

How can Israel withdraw from one area and be building settlements on others? Is that peace?
Patrick, NC, USA

People that think the way to stop suicide bombings is 'simple' - for Israel to withdraw to pre-1967 borders are extremely naive. These Palestinian terror groups don't want peace full stop. This is why they have bombed throughout any peace process. Terror groups want all of Israel, the idea they would suddenly stop if Israel quits the West Bank/Gaza just isn't credible.
Nick , UK

No one likes to see innocent people getting killed. The wall that has been built has angered many farmers and land owners. The Israelis have demolished many Palestinian homes along its path. The Israelis seem to have a total disregard for a need of a normal way of life for the Palestinians. When the Israelis can genuinely allow the Palestinians to have their full freedom in their own state, then genuine peace would be the outcome for all to enjoy.
Shanon, USA

Although I hope that this suicide bombing does not unravel the degree of peace that has been achieved, it should be noted that if violence escalates - the rest of the world will know who started it. This bombing does bring a chance for better relations however if the PA can finally step up to the plate and seriously detain/prosecute suspects involved with the bombing. Abbas now can prove how credible he is by not following the same path as his predecessor.
Alex, New York

I was deeply shocked by Friday's bomb. It makes me sick and angry. I feel so sorry for the people caught up in it. I just hope the Israeli government can hold back at least until it's clear who actually did it. We all must accept that the new Palestinian setup will not be able to stop the real fanatics from bombing Israeli, just as the US/UK cannot stop the fanatics in Iraq.
Paul Najman, London, UK

Sadly the attack was inevitable as the so-called peace deal is a sham. The wall, annexation and construction in the West Bank continue. Mr. Sharon's gift of the Gaza strip will be little more than a prison camp. Without access to the sea or work the Palestinians will be isolated, forced to leave or join the insurgency. This is a Sharon solution to maintain the status quo not a recipe for peace.
Russell Nicholls, Caracas Venezuela

Peace can still be achieved, provided Israel keeps its cool, and gives the Palestinian authority enough time and so long as the Palestinian authority deals with this as swiftly, firmly and as brutally as is necessary, then the predictable and usual downward spiral and tit-for-tat violence can be averted. We must also remember, that in each and every chance at peace, it has been a suicide bombing that has "blown away" those past chances.
Iain Steven, Bridge of Weir, UK

I believe the peace process is solid enough to withstand this attack. Andrea, NY, USA

I believe the peace process is solid enough to withstand this attack. Abbas is doing all the right things. Israel can be patient with him. A bigger question is what is the Arab world willing to do about suicide bombers that threaten its chances of democracy? I see a future taking shape where the Arabs themselves finally deal with these factions. After all, now they're motivated. They now have a better option - democracy.
Andrea, NY, USA

There are extremists on both sides, and Israel has put a tight lid on its right-wing activists. Can Abbas put a rein on his? No!
Jose Pinchas, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The balance of opinion seems to be on this page for Israel to ride this attack out. I agree but terms like the "usual knee jerk reaction" only adds to the Israelis pain. As everyone seems to forget the famous words on the Dauchau memorial, "Never Again". This proud people have promised themselves not to let their guard down and let their neighbours shatter them again. The Palestinians are going to have to move fast to make arrests and mean it or the whole beautiful experiment of peace will be over before it even started.
Diana Downey, Rochester Hills Mi USA

Once again the Palestinians have proved they have no interest in any form of negotiated peace with Israel. And, of course, the world will carry on blaming Israel as it has done for the past few years. It is time for the world to wake up and unitedly confront the evil of global terrorism within which the Palestinians have played such a prominent part for the past 35 years.
Trevor David, London

Let's show those mindless extremists that nothing will stand in the way of peace. If the Palestinians want to live in peace show the world and come out on the street marching.
Sij Islam, Bangladesh

It's not 'the Palestinians' who carried out this attack, but a handful of violent, racist thugs who happen to be Palestinian. The fight against terrorism will continue but, unlike previously, the Palestinians now have a leader who genuinely wants peace and this is recognised by Israel so the peace process will continue.
Albert, Edinburgh

Does anyone still have doubts about who is responsible for the violence? Once again Palestinians murder Israeli civilians and people expect Israel to carry on as if nothing happened. As Israel acts with restraint, Palestinian armed groups exploit the quiet to prepare for the next wave of attacks. Let all people who want peace take and support decisive measures to destroy the terrorist infrastructure and insist that the Arab world does its part, help Israel strengthen her defences against terrorism and give the two peoples a chance to negotiate a settlement.
John Moloney, London UK

Only a few months ago, I would be blasé about an incident like this. Unfortunately, this is doubly tragic given the incredibly fragile state of the peace process.
Graeme Phillips, Guildford, UK

This attack proves that in the eyes of world opinion a Jewish life is still worth more than a Palestinian life. Those who condemn this blast and the killing of Jewish civilians fail to condemn the killing of more than 20 Palestinians in this so called "cooling down period". No one cared. Yet one Palestinian attack brings the process to the brink of collapse? What does the Jewish community do against the enemies of peace in its midst? And there are plenty of them...As long as human lives are of different value this conflict will never be solved.
Kaan, Düsseldorf, Germany

I don't believe that this bombing comes as much of a surprise to anyone. Now is the time for Mr. Abbas to take a very heavy hand to the group claiming responsibility. He has an opportunity to show that he is up to the task.
Peter Del Bourgo, Croton-on-Hudson, NY USA

The fact that there was another terrorist attack is not the point and was predicted and expected. It is what the Palestinian Authority will do about it that counts. Mark, USA

The fact that there was another terrorist attack is not the point and was predicted and expected. It is what the Palestinian Authority will do about it that counts. Arafat publicly condemned them all while he was secretly supporting them. While Mahmoud Abbas may not be so hypocritical, words and half hearted measures will not be nearly enough. If he is truly committed to a Palestinian state, he must use every and all means available to him to dismantle the terrorist infrastructure as quickly, completely, and effectively as possible as directed by the roadmap to convince Israel that his government has the legitimate right to take its place among the ranks of the nations. Anything short of this will probably signal the final death knell of the peace process for a very long time.
Mark, USA

The State of Israel has been protecting its citizens from terrorism since its creation in 1948 just like any other nation would do. With the recent summit in Egypt and agreement by the leadership, it just goes to show the dedication of Abbas and Sharon in ending this hatred which is dividing the land. The Palestinian people need to wake up and realize that their dream of a statehood is a little closer today than a while ago, but it will not be achieved it they continue down this path of hate and murder of towards Israel.
Wayne, VA, USA

Israel should react with extra restraint than called for to isolate the madmen who are bent on destabilising the situation. With almost all organised groups observing ceasefire, this may be the best chance ever for peace. Fringe elements are bound to indulge in such acts to attract attention but Israel and Palestine authority should seize this opportunity to work out an amicable solution amongst themselves without any external influence. After all its these two parties that has been bleeding the most.
Regy, Mumbai India

Now Israel will become hated by everyone again for defending her borders from terrorist attacks. I think this proves once and for all who is causing the problems in the Middle East.
Robert Sutton, Halifax, England

I think Mahmoud Abbas is in a very critical position at the moment being a new leader which he is. I think it will take a lot of time and effort and both side needs to have patience and while the world stands and waits for Peace in the Middle East.
Abid Khan, UK

What peace process? Wake up and smell the coffee. Israel has no intention of achieving any peace, it's a charade you blind fools.
N Azar, Lincoln, UK

Should the new Palestinian leadership want peace, they would need to make a genuine effort to crack down on militants.
Souzan A, Sydney - Australia

I live in the centre of Tel Aviv, with my husband and small baby Charlotte, Tel Aviv, Israel

I am devastated by last night suicide bombing. I live in the centre of Tel Aviv, with my husband and small baby. How can we continue to live like this? With dreams of peace and hope and a normal life, only to continually have them shattered by a group of fanatics who will do everything in their power to destroy peace and Israel. Even if you are an optimist, you have to ask yourself, what can Abbas or Sharon do to stop this?
Charlotte, Tel Aviv, Israel

The Palestinian leadership cannot stop the extremists, any more than the Irish government could stop the IRA back in the 70s. What is needed is for the Israeli and Palestinian leaderships to work together to build compromises and solutions without blaming each other when things happen that are past their control.
Steve, Auckland, NZ

It would be nice for once, to see thousands of Palestinians marching for peace with placards saying "Not in my Name".
Chris Hyde, Paris, France

If anyone is serious about stopping such appalling attacks, then the solution is simple: Israel must withdraw from the occupied territories.
Darren, Edinburgh

It is crucial that Israeli government remain patient and let the Palestinian Authority respond. Enough is enough, "the ball" is in the Palestinian Authority's court, they must create and enforce a strict policy for this kind of behaviour, and the victims of this blast need to be compensated.
Edward McCoy, Germany

Very depressing indeed, they've had the best chance of peace in years and some idiot goes out and ruins it all.
Al Smith, Cardiff, Wales

The only way the Palestinians will ever achieve their dreams of statehood is to abandon terrorism once and for all.
Mark, AZ, USA

One of the two sides has finally risen above the tit-for-tat killings Jeff, Telford, UK

Let's hope that the Israeli leadership are adult enough not to resort to their normal knee-jerk retaliations. One of the two sides has finally risen above the tit-for-tat killings that has kept this divide alive. But I'm not holding my breath.
Jeff, Telford, UK

This will not be the last attack - but if all sides for peace remain strong it could be one of the last.
Dan, UK

Palestinian extremists will always be trying to sabotage each and every peace-effort. The Hamas has clearly stated that it's vision of peace includes the destruction of Israel. There will never be peace unless these extremists are destroyed.
Simon Wunder, Wassenberg, Germany

It is difficult to find words to express the despair every Arab feels. Palestinians need hope and Israelis need security. To move forward, pragmatic steps are needed to find a logical solution. So far all we have seen are political manoeuvres and speeches that fall short of solving the problems. Palestinians may agree to cut the violence, but they cannot stop suicide attacks. How can they when we see the Americans failing to do so in Iraq? On the other hand Israel want peace and land, those who feel the land belongs to them by biblical rights cannot live within international law.
Ahamd Hmoud, Amman ,Jordan

The only way this will end is if we raise these Palestinian kids and Israeli kids in the same schools Moshe Nagajio, Los Angeles, US

The only way this will end is if we raise these Palestinian kids and Israeli kids in the same schools since birth. I was born in Israel and raised in LA. I remember the pain I felt when I was taken out of private Hebrew school and was put in school with everyone else. Leaving private school is now the best thing that happened to me because I learned to live with any culture you can imagine. I use to say I hate Palestinian people, but now I guess I feel pity for them for not learning how to accept life with the Israelis. I hope this comment could save at least two lives - a Jew's and a Palestinian's.
Moshe Nagajio, Los Angeles, US

As disheartening as it is, the bombing is hardly surprising. Multiple terrorist organizations refused to accept the latest ceasefire. Yet I doubt most Palestinians support such an attack at this point. It would be refreshing and amazing to see some kind of Palestinian protest for peace. If anything, this violence will further pressure the Palestinian Authority into cracking down on terrorism and ultimately hasten the peace process.
Matthew Mangs, Los Angeles, CA, USA

It is about time that the world confront the real cause of this terror. It seems the Palestinian leadership is right, it cannot prevent such attacks however it tries (even when Israel is satisfied) unless Israel succumbs to the reality of its occupation.
Ryan Sadi, Montreal

If Mahmoud Abbas cannot catch those responsible, he'll be another Arafat.
Yossi, Tokyo, Japan

Abbas must use all his resources to hunt down the culprits Jon, London, UK

Very sad, but what can be gained from a breakdown of the peace process. Abbas must use all his resources to hunt down the culprits. The Israelis should learn to turn the other cheek. Not because there is a god, but because there isn't.
Jon, London, UK

It couldn't be more difficult for Israel to trust the Palestinians. How many genuinely oppose this vicious attack on civilians? BBC asks how effective the new leadership can be in cracking down but it forgets effectiveness. Try stating once and for all that such attacks are completely unjustified and disgusting and unworthy of any praise or sympathy. The P.A. leadership cannot both praise these criminals while simultaneously stating that they are unable to rein the "militants" in.
Stephen, New York, NY

For the first time since the Intifada started, I have actually been hopeful. I hope that this latest attack does not shatter the hopes and dreams of the people on both sides of this conflict. We will now see just how much power Abbas has over his people. This may be the most important moment in Abbas' life. Lets hope he delivers for both the Israelis and the Palestinians.
Benjamin, Philadelphia, USA

The Palestinians need to be given their territory to establish their nationhood and sovereignty Jamal, Virginia, US

Attacks and counter-attacks are not the solution. The Palestinians need to be given their territory to establish their nationhood and sovereignty. In the long term that will lead the way to peace. This is not easy to accept. The propensity is to answer attacks with counter attacks. To break out of this vicious cycle, both parties have to remain restrained and focused on the peace process.
Jamal, Virginia, US

There will always be people who will create havoc to further their goals. It takes more courage to break the cycle of violence.
Collin Baber, Seoul, Korea

It's obvious the Palestinian extremists are not interested in peace. Now is the time for the moderate majority of both Palestinians & Israelis to exercise restraint and keep the momentum going.
SM, Wyoming, USA

Sometimes a nation/people needs a civil war to purge itself... The Palestinian people need an uprising against the killers in their own communities who are determined to guarantee a future filled with conflict, poverty, and shattered dreams of statehood and legitimacy.
Doug , Philadelphia, PA

Sharon and Abbas, work together, find the strength to lead your people to a peace Philip E, Hampshire, UK

Having spent time working with Israelis and Arabs in my gap year I came to love both people and I was so happy when I thought peace was finally coming to this troubled region. The Palestinians have a right to a viable state, and Israel and even Sharon recognise this, but Israel has the right to live in security. Palestinians must rely on their true strengths, their courage, their dignity and their faith to achieve their goals... Israel must not see this as an end to the peace process - they must help Abbas to gain in strength so he can fight and crush the evil of Hamas and Islamic Jihad. I am praying that this is not the end. Sharon and Abbas, work together, find the strength to lead your people to a peace that will unleash the potential of two wonderful people.
Philip E, Hampshire, UK

Sadly, the militant groups cannot stop fighting Israel as it leaves them with no purpose. And until the Palestinian youth are educated to embrace their neighbours, there will always be suicide bombers and the situation is unlikely to change. Let's hope the new cabinet of the Palestinian Authority realise this, try to rectify it and then maybe they will be able to stick to the path of peace as I sincerely believe they aspire to.
Daniel Levene, Birmingham