What it is about
The head of the National Security Council, Tzachi Hanegbi, predicted sustained military engagement in Gaza for another seven months during an interview with Kan on Wednesday. This comes as the Israeli Defense Forces make strategic advances along the critical Philadelphia corridor and prepare for decisive actions in Rafah.
Why it matters
Hanegbi’s declaration underscores Israel’s commitment to ensuring long-term security and stability in the region through comprehensive military action. Control of the Philadelphia corridor, a crucial 13-kilometer (8-mile) stretch along Gaza’s border with Egypt, is pivotal to curbing weapons smuggling and reinforcing national security.
Details
According to Hanegbi, the IDF now controls 75% of this key route and plans to continue working in coordination with Egypt to thwart smuggling operations. In a similar vein, Brig.-Gen. (res.) Amir Avivi, Director-General of the Israel Defense and Security Forum (IDSF), emphasized the critical nature of upcoming operations in Rafah. Avivi indicated that seizing Rafah could catalyze a total collapse in Gaza’s militant infrastructure.
“Decisive Moment”
Avivi reiterated the need for a comprehensive assault utilizing planes, artillery, and tanks, asserting, “We must defeat it because we are in a decisive moment.” He is convinced that a thorough destruction of Rafah, coupled with taking responsibility for humanitarian aid, could markedly expedite the conclusion of the war effort.
Logistics and Strategy
The broader IDF strategy also includes incremental moves within Gaza. There are plans to reposition divisions and ensure comprehensive control of areas like Khan Yunis and Rafah. The 7th Brigade’s armored combat team exemplifies this approach, garnering impressive results through coordinated operations against militant compounds and rocket-launching sites.
Operational Successes
The combat team’s actions in Jabalia highlighted significant victories, including the neutralization of rocket launchers, discovery, and destruction of weapon caches, and precise eliminations of insurgent threats in coordination with Unit 636. These successes represent steps towards greater security and showcase IDF’s capability and preparedness.
Related Tags
Israel | Gaza | IDF | Rafah | Tzachi Hanegbi
This story was first published on jpost.com.