Newscasters on official government radio, which serves as the country's political voice, announced that Syria is elated over Israel's withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, calling it an important step toward full liberation of Palestine. Broadcasters said the pullout is "a victory for the Palestinian people and proof of Israel's failure...." They warned, however, of the difficult road ahead because "we're talking about a racist enemy [the Jews] that does not hesitate to commit cold-blooded, barbaric crimes."