The Gaza Strip is one of the most densely packed regions in the world, and Hamas has had years to methodically prepare for a ground invasion, including through the construction of underground tunnels, many of which have been booby-trapped with explosives.
“These tunnels serve a dual purpose,” Hershkovitz writes: “They counter the aerial advantage of the Israeli Air Force by providing a tactical combat advantage, and they offer a haven for its operatives.”
Hamas’s goals include prolonging combat situations and drawing Israel into actions that could subject it to global scrutiny. They do that in part by using civilians as human shields.
“Hamas has been known to carry out operations from within homes and public structures, to use civilian ambulances for transporting military personnel and arms, and to launch rockets and mortars towards populated areas in Israel.”
Hamas also has a secret weapon of sorts. It cares less about the loss of its soldiers than does the IDF. “Recognizing Israel’s aversion to military losses, Hamas’s strategy is to maximize IDF casualties, so as to curtail duration of hostilities, wound Israeli morale and challenge any perceived victory for the IDF,” writes Hershkovitz.
“The IDF recognizes the challenges of a ground incursion into Gaza,” Hershkovitz concludes. But it must take decisive action because that’s what the Israeli public demands.
Read the op-ed at TheHill.com.
