Military Analysis of Qassam Operations Against Israel
Major General Wassef Erekat, a military expert, has provided an in-depth analysis of the recent operations conducted by the Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas, against Israeli forces. He asserts that these operations represent a significant shift in military strategy, showcasing a level of planning and execution that challenges the traditional military hierarchy. Erekat emphasizes that the Qassam fighters, operating from underground tunnels and utilizing advanced planning techniques, are outmaneuvering Israeli forces, which he claims are relying on outdated tactics involving tanks and air support.
Impact on Israeli Morale and Military Image
Erekat notes that the imagery captured during these operations, including footage of Qassam fighters planning attacks and documenting Israeli casualties, is detrimental to the morale of the Israeli home front. He argues that such scenes not only undermine the perceived strength of the Israeli military but also serve as powerful propaganda tools that resonate with both Palestinian and international audiences. The military expert highlights that the ongoing conflict in Jabalia has resulted in significant Israeli casualties, with reports indicating that 30 officers and soldiers have been killed in recent weeks.
Humanitarian Aid and Military Strategy
In light of the ongoing conflict, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has called for tighter control over humanitarian aid to Gaza, suggesting that this could help weaken Hamas's grip on power. Erekat critiques this approach, arguing that it reflects a broader failure of Israeli intelligence and military strategy to effectively counter the resilience and adaptability of Palestinian resistance forces. He believes that the Qassam Brigades possess the mental agility to respond to changing battlefield conditions and continue their operations despite Israeli attempts to disrupt them.