Israel fears a repeat of the October 7th massacre of its citizens.
By Hezy Laing
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s reported decision to conquer the Gaza Strip marks a dramatic shift in Israel’s military strategy and has major practical implications.
The move follows almost five months of failed negotiations to release even some, let alone all, of the remaining hostages.
With ceasefire negotiations at a standstill, many believe there are no viable alternatives to achieve key objectives.
Most military experts express doubts that Hamas will release the remaining hostages, which it uses as leverage and a shield against total destruction.
This leads to the conclusion that conquering Gaza is the only remaining method to free them.
Additionally, there is widespread skepticism about relying on international bodies or the Palestinian Authority to secure the area or prevent Hamas from regaining control.
From Israel’s perspective, allowing Hamas to retain power in Gaza is perceived as granting the group a symbolic victory.
Defense Minister Israel Katz emphasized the need for a long-term Israeli military presence in strategic zones to prevent future attacks.
To attain full control the IDF would expand operations into all remaining areas of Gaza, including densely populated zones like Gaza City and central coastal regions.
This goes beyond current control, which already covers about three-quarters of the territory.
The goal is to eliminate Hamas’s military and political infrastructure, especially in areas where hostages are believed to be held.
The operation is expected to take two to three months.
Hamas wants an end to the war and continued control in Gaza. Their demands include:
– Full Israeli retreat from the Strip leaving Hamas forces adjacent to Israeli towns.
– IDF pull back from the Philadelphi Corridor (the buffer zone along the Egypt–Gaza border) allowing the terror group to rearm.
– The release of hundreds more Palestinian terrorists.
– A permanent ceasefire: They want an end to the war, not just a temporary truce.
– Guarantees from mediators: They’re asking for international assurances that Israel will uphold any agreement reached.
By leaving Hamas in control of the Gaza Strip, Israel fears a repeat of the October 7th massacre of its citizens.
