Livni: The equation in Gaza can change, and will change

Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni on Wednesday warned that things were about to change in Gaza, speaking after a day that saw more than 60 Qassam rockets and mortar shells pound Israel's south.

"We withdrew from Gaza, but we did not leave our destiny at the hands of Hamas," Livni said at a Kadima Party conference in Jerusalem. "The equation must change, and it is about to change," she added.

At the last minute, Livni decided to cancel scheduled festivities to mark the launching of elections season, turning the Kadima event into a demonstration of solidarity with the residents of southern Israel, who have been terrorized by rocket fire, especially since the six-month cease fire agreement between Israel and Hamas expired last week.

The colorful decorations were put away, the videos and jingles were called off, and in their stead, Livni and Transportation Minister Shaul Mofaz addressed the crowd. "We are gathered here to present the leaders that will stand at the helm of the state of Israel," Livni opened her remarks. "This was supposed to be a festive event on the eve of the elections? While we sit in Jerusalem, the residents of the south are under attack, and citizens and children have been forced to become soldiers."

Livni threatened Hamas, saying "don't kid yourselves. Our desire to be calm and peaceful does not weaken our desire to take action in the face of abductions and threats."

Mofaz, following a period of tension with party leader Livni, complimented the foreign minister and said "tonight we are united within Kadima in order to steer Kadima toward a government led by Tzipi Livni."

"Israel's government has to rehabilitate the power of deterrence, and we can do it," Mofaz added. "We must change our reality. No country in the world would accept a reality in which its children are under the constant threat of terror."