Smuggling in Gaza

Soccer Dad notes that two things are now being smuggled into Gaza from Egypt: weapons (you mean they still have to be smuggled?) -- and brides.

In that part of the world, of course, carrying a concealed bride is very common. You've heard the dialogue before: "Drop that bride-in-a-burqa, Mahmoud, and no one will get hurt." (Except perhaps the bride.)

I suppose this also proves the ancient dictum that if smuggling brides is outlawed, only outlaws will have brides.

Apparently, the State Department has asked Abbas to get tough by demanding that Hamas turn over all its brides. Or at least stop displaying them publicly. But don't count on it. He has too much at stake in the bride trafficking.