Alan Johnston's release and Hamas

Hamas is an organisation that refuses to denounce violence and to recognise state of Israel. Hamas is also a democratically elected party of Palestine people. There is no doubt that the group played a significant role in Johnston's release. Question now for the international community is whether engage dialogue with Hamas or exclude them as they are regarded as a terrorist organisation.Having learned from the Northern Ireland peace process, there would be no positive result unless the process includes all the parties involved in the negotiation. Hamas now has control over Gaza strip whereas the rival faction Fatah controls the West bank. It is essential to negotiate with Hamas should the international community ever wishes real peace settlement in the region. Peaceful solution to the conflict is viable, although it is very difficult. It is, however, impossible without involving Hamas that represents important voice of many Palestine people.