What’s happening:
In spite of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announcement of having established “operational control” over crucial areas of Gaza City and northern Gaza, there continues to be sporadic large-scale rocket fire from the Hamas-controlled region, prompting questions about the effectiveness of the IDF’s control.
Why it matters:
Operational control by the IDF is designed to enhance security for Israeli citizens by reducing the number of rocket attacks initiated by Hamas. However, the recent firing of 30 rockets in one night raises concerns about the security situation and IDF’s proclaimed degree of control. This tension reflects on the ongoing conflict’s unpredictability, and the IDF’s ability to deliver stability through its operations has implications for the safety of the general public.
By the numbers:
The IDF’s goal of operational control was to substantially decrease rocket attacks from Gaza, which have purportedly dropped from hundreds per day to approximately 14 per day. Yet, the recent incident of nearly 30 rockets signals that significant threats remain.
The backdrop:
After announcing operational control over parts of northern Gaza, the IDF was able to scale back on reservist brigades and commenced the cautious return of residents to some southern cities. Nonetheless, the occurrence of concentrated attacks – like the encounter with 14 terrorists in Shaati – demonstrates that operational control does not preclude all forms of hostility.
What they’re saying:
Top defense officials have maintained that operational control will not eliminate the possibility of isolated rocket attacks or minor skirmishes, asserting that persistent threats can still surface even amid tightened military grasp.
What’s next:
The IDF faces the challenge of sustaining the reduced level of rocket attacks in the upcoming weeks. Successful long-term suppression of such incidents would validate the IDF’s operational achievements, whereas frequent disruptions could prompt scrutiny on whether real control has been established.
The big picture:
While the IDF’s operational control might not signify the complete neutralization of Hamas as an ongoing threat, maintaining a consistent decrease in rocket attacks and hostile engagements would represent a significant step towards improving stability and security for Israeli communities.
This story was first published on jpost.com.