Declaring victory after the ceasefire

Israel and Hamas both claim the upperhand after a ceasefire.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says Israel can take comfort from delivering a severe blow to its enemy.

(SOUNDBITE) (Hebrew) ISRAELI PRIME MINISTER BENJAMIN NETANYAHU SAYING:

"We acted against the terrorist group's infrastructure targets. Things that were built up over years were destroyed. We are prepared to act should the quiet be violated. The objectives that we set for the operation were achieved. I know that there are citizens who expect an even tougher response. We are prepared for that, too. We choose against when, against whom and how to act, as we did in this operation. Now we are giving the ceasefire a chance."

Although Hamas lost its top military commander it nonetheless emerged with an enhanced reputation in the Arab world.

(SOUNDBITE) (Arabic) HAMAS LEADER ISMAIL HANIYEH SAYING:

"The resistance has changed the rules of the game with the occupation, and it has disrupted their security and military calculations. and I say to the Palestinian people, in Gaza, the West Bank, and everywhere, and to the entire Arab and Islamic world: The idea of invading Gaza after this victory is over, and will never come back again, God willing."

The eight day conflict left at least 162 Palestinians dead and killed five Israelis.