Israeli media reported on Olmert-Barak’s decision to respond militarily to rocket attacks from Gaza. As we’d expected, they meant continuation of hyper-expensive and ineffective air strikes against rocket launchpads. Haim Ramon confirmed our expectation, saying that no agreement was reached on a large-scale invasion of Gaza.
Barak is right in the sense that no military operation can dislodge Hamas. After Israel’s disengagement from Gaza and especially during the ceasefire, Hamas built a viable 20,000-strong militia; prepared tunnels, trenches, and foxholes; laid anti-tank mines; and prepared for long-term guerrilla warfare. IDF will occupy Gaza illegally, but will immediately suffer from guerrilla attacks much stronger than Hezbollah’s. Hamas will use human shields, fire from settled areas and residential buildings, score PR victories from dead civilians, and generally drive the IDF away—unless there’s a political decision to depopulate the terrorist nest altogether.
Hamas agreed to a short-term renewal of ceasefire, and the attacks are carried out now by smaller groups. By now, Hamas has realized that the Israeli government won’t accept any sweeter terms of ceasefire. Temporary calm will ensue soon.
Israel prepares to occupy Gaza. But this is not the first time. Probably, the government should finally think not about occupation but the about the conquering of these dirty Arabs.Israel prepares to occupy Gaza which will cause even more casualties for Jews.
Rahm Emanuel, Arab in his views, will be glad to get rid of as many Jews as possible.