What’s happening
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) offensive in Gaza, following the end of a temporary ceasefire, has resulted in a marked decrease in the rocket fire from Hamas. The IDF’s operations, particularly in Khan Yunis, have substantially impacted Hamas’s ability to launch attacks on Israel.
Why it matters
Hamas’s diminished capacity to fire rockets poses a significant change in the security dynamics of the region. From an initial average of 75 rockets per day at the beginning of December, numbers have declined to a daily average of 16 by mid-December. As of December 27, no rockets had been fired, indicating a moment of quiet and showcasing the effectiveness of the IDF’s campaign.
By the numbers
Early in the conflict, hundreds of rockets were being fired by Hamas each day. This number was reduced to an average of 75 rockets daily in the first week of December. By the second week, the average had dropped further to 23 per day. This decrease continued, reaching an average of 16 rockets in the third week of December.
The bigger picture
Hamas’s capacity for aggression has been significantly impaired by the IDF, with an 80% reduction in their ability to launch rockets from northern Gaza as of late November. The destruction of rocket launchers, storage facilities, and a key weapons lathe in Khan Yunis has had a substantial impact. Though Hamas still retains some capabilities in Rafah, the overall threat level has been markedly reduced.
A moment of quiet
As the situation stands, there has been a pause in rocket fire, which could indicate a shift towards a less volatile atmosphere. The cessation of attacks, even if temporary, provides a respite for the citizens of Israel who have been under the constant threat of rocket attacks.
The impact of IDF operations
The IDF’s targeted operations have not only reduced rocket fire but also weakened the infrastructure of Hamas. This includes the destruction of the home of Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar, which has become a symbolic crater in Khan Yunis.
This story was first published on jpost.com.