What’s it about
Amidst ongoing tensions with Hamas, Israel faces challenges in reclaiming its strategic initiative. Despite Israel’s intentions for a decisive victory and elimination of Hamas’s control and capabilities in the Gaza Strip, Israel appears entangled in responding to conditions set by the militant group rather than setting the pace itself.
Why it Matters
From a pro-Israeli perspective, enabling Hamas to dictate terms undermines Israel’s strategic objectives of ensuring the safety and security of its citizens. For Israel, the continuous lurching from one crisis to another weakens deterrence and breeds more regional instability, particularly with others, such as Hezbollah and factions in the West Bank, eagerly waiting to test Israeli resolve.
The Situation Context
Since the outbreak of hostilities on October 7, 2023, following a brutal Hamas massacre and hostage capture, Israel has struggled to subdue Hamas fully. The terrorist organization’s maneuvers have included deferring the swap of prisoners, provocative breaches, and ceaseless challenges in Gaza and surrounding territories.
Recently, Hamas announced a delay in the planned handover of hostages, prompting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to order further military build-up. Preparations are underway for renewed hostilities should Hamas fail to meet Israel’s expectations in releasing hostages.
Support for Israel’s Actions
Israeli government insiders suggest that now may be an opportune moment to secure unequivocal United States support, emphasizing robust steps against Hamas to break the intermittent state of ceasefire to security operation cycles. With backing presumed from the Biden administration, there’s an overarching confidence nurturing the idea of intensifying operations in Gaza.
Vision Forward
The article critically examines whether Israel has detailed what ‘total victory’ entails. Israeli officials need a strategic framework matching military actions with a broader political long-term plan that would duly undercut profound threats imposed by Hamas. Empowering Israel includes proactive measures towards policy priorities that assure national and collective efficacy and security stability reins.
This story was first published on jpost.com.