The Choices on Gaza

Israel is at a pivotal crossroads in its dealings with Hamas in Gaza. The country is weighing multiple strategies: a large-scale invasion, targeted strikes, or negotiating another ceasefire agreement with Hamas.

Why It Matters

For nearly two months, Israel has been entrenched in a contentious negotiation process predicated on a hostage situation. The outcome could fundamentally shape Israel’s security landscape and broader geopolitical standing, as well as set a precedent for combating extremist organizations like Hamas. Aggressive military action could decisively weaken Hamas, whereas a negotiated ceasefire might help stabilize the region temporarily.

The Decision Spectrum

If newly appointed IDF Chief Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir opts for an all-out attack on Hamas, it would entail a comprehensive offensive across Gaza, unprecedented in scale compared to previous operations. This includes significant relocation of non-combatants to humanitarian-safe zones, facilitating focused military operations with reduced risk to civilian lives.

A Circumspect Path Yet Promising

Instead, there’s a resurging discourse advocating for gradual, targeted military operations, offering Hamas an ultimatum under controlled pressure. This may provide Israel potential leverage, nudging Hamas towards negotiations, more in Israel’s favor. However, the gradual approach poses risks of miscommunicating decisiveness, possibly invigorating Hamas rather than deterring it.

Military or Diplomatic Solution

The capability and willpower to undertake another extensive military campaign persist. However, absent domestic consensus—historically not exceeding 10% public support—shows the skepticism lying in protracted military engagements imprints the strategic calculus in characteristic Israeli pragmatism.

Opportunity in Diplomacy

Meanwhile, interim negotiations—trading hostages for ceasefires propose avenues to digest complex status quo slowly, opening diplomacy doors amid uncertainties. The recent controversial mission targeting an Islamic Jihad asset illuminates Israel’s delicate act balancing determined minor conflicts and maintain broader tactical postures.

The Way Forward

Ultimately, further delaying definitive pathways retains options for Israeli leadership amidst challenges. It even mounts pressure on Hamas within careful calibrated signals, suggesting heightened operational readiness while sparing Israel immediate attachments to full-scale war’s pitfalls.

This story was first published on jpost.com.