During the recent weekend, thousands of Iranians rallied in support of Gaza residents, denouncing the loss of “Palestinian children” in the conflict.
General Hossein Salami, commander of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards, declared on Iranian television that Israel would face a protracted war of attrition.
Iran, orchestrating actions across the Middle East through affiliates like Hezbollah and the Houthis, seeks to exhaust Israel with the hope of causing its collapse.
Israel’s current image in the Arab world portrays it as a fragile nation dependent on external aid, especially from the U.S.
The IDF, once perceived as invincible, is now viewed as a defeated force.
The axis of evil, led by Iran, believes that Israel’s Zionist dream is fading, intensifying the pressure on the country.
The erosion of Israel’s perceived power began in 1982 during the First Lebanon War, revealing challenges in combating terrorist organizations.
Subsequent conflicts, including the Second Lebanon War in 2006 and the withdrawal from Gaza in 2005, demonstrated the effectiveness of guerrilla warfare by groups like Hezbollah and Hamas.
Israel faces a critical challenge following the surprise attack by Hamas.
To restore its deterrence, it must defeat Hamas decisively.
The ongoing military campaign has achieved some success, but more is needed. Goals include overthrowing Hamas, destroying its military capabilities, and freeing abductees.
Strategies for a Comprehensive Victory
Israel should expand its military campaign throughout the Gaza Strip, seizing strategic points, such as the “Philadelphia axis” on the border with Egypt.
Ground attacks on Hamas strongholds are essential for collapse. Eradicating all signs of Hamas rule, clearing tunnels, and establishing a buffer zone along the border will ensure the safety of Israeli settlements.
The proposed buffer zone should be defined as a “killing area,” where any Palestinian entering it will face consequences.
Simultaneously, political pressure on Qatar, which hosts the Hamas leadership, should increase through diplomatic channels, with a focus on securing a potential prisoner exchange deal.
As the military campaign progresses, Israel must anticipate changes in its political relationships, especially regarding Qatar, while staying committed to achieving its objectives in the Gaza Strip.
