Israel's Goals in Gaza
The New York Times recently reported that Israel has failed in achieving its main goals in Gaza. More than 100 days after the invasion, the military leaders are becoming increasingly frustrated. Some of them now believe that the only way to bring back the detainees in Gaza is through diplomatic means, rather than military action.
Secret Plans and Testimonies
The newspaper published a detailed report that included secret plans for military operations and testimonies from Israeli military commanders and political officials. These accounts shed light on the course of the war and the challenges faced by Israel.
Doubts and Limited Progress
According to The New York Times, Israel's limited progress in dismantling Hamas in Gaza has raised doubts among senior military leaders. They are starting to question whether the two main goals of the war, which are eliminating Hamas and recovering more than 100 prisoners, can be achieved. It is believed that Hamas is still holding the majority of these prisoners.
Unfulfilled Plans
The Israeli army had initially planned to control the cities of Gaza, Khan Yunis, and Rafah by late December. However, these plans were not accomplished. The slower pace of progress in the military campaign has led to frustration among Israeli military leaders, who are now questioning the political leadership's strategy in Gaza.
Recovering Prisoners and Destroying Hamas
Israeli military leaders have expressed their belief that recovering prisoners and destroying Hamas have become incompatible goals. This highlights the strategic dilemma faced by Israel in the ongoing conflict.
Strategic Impasse and Frustration
The strategic impasse has exacerbated the frustration of the Israeli army, who feel that the political leadership has been hesitant in taking decisive action. They fear that the prolonged battle to destroy Hamas may result in the loss of lives of those detained in Gaza.
Erosion of Allied Support
The Israeli military is concerned that the lack of a post-war plan and the length of the military campaign may lead to a decline in allied support. This further adds to their worries and challenges in Gaza.
Challenges in Advancement
By mid-January, Israeli forces had not made progress in advancing towards the city of Rafah or expelling Hamas fighters from Khan Yunis. These cities are located in the southern part of the Gaza Strip.
Return of Hamas Fighters
In recent days, Hamas fighters have returned to the northern Gaza Strip after the Israeli army claimed to have imposed control and withdrew some of its forces. This highlights the ongoing challenges and complexities in the region.
Army's Response
The Israeli army spokesperson responded to The New York Times report, stating that the statements reported by the newspaper do not reflect the official position of the army.
Source: New York Times
