Military Analysis of Qassam Brigades' Recent Operations
Retired Major General Wassef Erekat, a military and strategic expert, has provided insights into the recent operation conducted by the Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas. He emphasized that this operation sends multiple significant messages to the Israeli occupation army. Notably, the presence of a sixty-year-old fighter on the front lines highlights the deep-rooted culture of resistance among Palestinians, demonstrating that the spirit of resistance transcends age.
The operation involved targeting and destroying Israeli vehicles using 105 Al-Yassin missiles in the eastern region of Jabalia camp in the northern Gaza Strip. Erekat pointed out that the participation of older fighters in such operations serves to boost morale among Palestinians and supporters of their cause, reinforcing the idea that resistance is driven by will rather than age.
Implications of the Operation
Erekat analyzed the broader implications of the operation, stating that every detail in the video broadcast by the Qassam Brigades carries significant meaning. He noted that Jabalia has transformed from merely a refugee camp into a stronghold of resistance against the Israeli military. This shift underscores the resilience and determination of the Palestinian people in the face of adversity.
The retired general also highlighted that the frequency of resistance operations, despite the Israeli military's technological superiority, emphasizes the importance of human factors—specifically the will and courage of the fighters—in the ongoing conflict. He characterized the recent operation not only as a tactical success but also as a strategic move in psychological warfare, aimed at undermining the morale of Israeli forces.
Psychological Warfare and Morale
Erekat elaborated on the psychological aspects of the conflict, suggesting that the Israeli army is not fully disclosing the extent of its losses, which he believes are significantly higher than reported. He argued that the ongoing operations have led to a decline in morale among Israeli soldiers, who are increasingly fearful and describe their encounters with Palestinian fighters as facing 'ghosts.' This psychological impact is crucial in understanding the dynamics of the conflict, as it reflects the effectiveness of the Palestinian resistance in challenging a technologically advanced military.
In conclusion, Erekat's analysis indicates that the persistence of the Qassam Brigades in conducting operations over an extended period, now exceeding 403 days, demonstrates a high level of effectiveness that challenges the perceived invincibility of the Israeli military. This evolving landscape of resistance highlights the complex interplay of military strategy, psychological warfare, and the enduring spirit of the Palestinian people.