Gaza-based terrorists fired four rockets into Israel on Wednesday, December 28th, perhaps bringing a military incursion into Hamas-controlled Gaza even closer. Military officials are confirming that the Gaza Division is indeed preparing for the eventuality of such an incursion, coinciding with the third anniversary of Operation Cast Lead, the major counter-terrorism offensive in Gaza.

A number of senior military officials, including members of the General Staff, have recently indicated it appears there will be no alternative and a counter-terrorism assault will be necessary as it becomes patently clear that Hamas is genuinely uninterested in living in peace alongside Israel.

Residents of southern areas, those in rocket-range, continue to call for a military response, fearing the government may permit the intermittent rocket attacks to escalate as was the case during the months leading up to cast lead. Most residents appear willing to endure living in bomb shelters for a limited period of time for as long as a military operation will do what is required towards restoring Israel’s deterrence and halting rocket attacks.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)