What’s happening
According to Eyal Ofer, an expert on Hamas’s economy, the military pressure applied by Israel on Hamas since January has proven insufficient, as acknowledged by the state in a recent affidavit to the High Court, denoting a lack of control over Gaza. Ofer elaborated on the need for increased efforts in all facets to truly address the situation in Gaza.
Why it matters
Despite significant military endeavors, Hamas in the northern Gaza Strip appears to be regaining strength. The need for a multifaceted strategy, combining military action with evacuation and psychological tactics, remains paramount. Without a comprehensive approach, the enduring power and influence of Hamas risk undermining Israel’s security efforts.
Driving the news
“There are hundreds of thousands of terrorists among the population in Gaza, which remains a significant problem for Israel,” Ofer remarked. Elaborating on this, he stressed that the enduring resilience of Hamas necessitates new strategies that go beyond military operations alone.
The Big Picture
Ofer emphasized the necessity of a strategic evacuation of Gaza City’s residents to undermine Hamas’s operations within heavily populated areas. An effective approach would ensure that the population is moved to the south of the Strip, ultimately disrupting the terror infrastructure.
What They’re Saying
“The IDF must demonstrate renewed determination and seriousness in these evacuation notices,” said Ofer. He highlighted the possibility of facilitating strategic psychological operations to displace the population in Gaza City, crucial for dismantling Hamas’s command center in the north.
What’s Next
While complete eradication of every terrorist element may not be feasible, an intensified pressure campaign focusing on the northern part of the Gaza Strip could strategize Israeli efforts effectively. By coupling strategic evacuation with continued military interventions, there’s hope to weaken Hamas’s hold and ensure better national security.
Conclusion
Israel’s military endeavors have demonstrated efficacy to a degree; however, to ensure broader security and disrupt Hamas’s influential network, a layered and comprehensive tactic involving strategic evacuations and continuous transformational efforts is essential.
This story was first published on jpost.com.