Israel has begun mobilizing troops near Gaza City’s outskirts in preparation for a full-scale offensive against Hamas terrorists. The operation, code-named “Gideon’s Chariots B,” marks the largest deployment of Israeli forces to date, with up to five divisions and 60,000 reservists involved.
Experts warn that the operation will be a challenging and costly battle due to Gaza City’s dense infrastructure, including tunnels, refugee camps, high-rise buildings, and a developed underground network. John Spencer, chair of urban warfare studies at the Madison Policy Forum, described the situation as “the defining battle of Israel’s war against Hamas.”
Spencer said that Hamas has built an extensive tunnel network, making it difficult for Israeli forces to penetrate. The IDF has shown creativity in maneuvering around obstacles but will need to use a range of tactics, including drones and specialized units, to overcome Hamas’ defenses.
A former senior Israeli security official warned that the operation may result in immense costs on both sides, with significant losses of civilian lives. The official also highlighted the difficulty of evacuating civilians from the area, as it’s uncertain who will stay behind, how many will leave, and how they’ll react to an evacuation attempt.
Spencer believes that military pressure is necessary to defeat Hamas and rescue any hostages being held in Gaza City. He argues that the risk of military action outweighs the risks associated with allowing Hamas to continue holding a sanctuary.
The operation is expected to be protracted, potentially lasting months, and will require careful planning and execution to minimize civilian casualties. The fate of potential hostages remains uncertain, but experts warn that the outcome may be tragic for both Israelis and Palestinians.
Source: https://www.foxnews.com/world/israel-set-launch-gaza-city-offensive-high-stakes-high-costs-ahead