As the war rages on, Gaza is getting destroyed, people are getting killed on both sides, and a resolution of the conflict seems as elusive as ever. On the contrary, the war is escalating and spreading to other theaters.
Israel is facing two challenging issues: the safe return of the hostages and the eradication of Hamas. Thus far, those issues seemed to be at odds with each other.
According to the reports, the IDF is evaluating two distinct options. The first option involved a full-scale assault on Gaza by infantry and Special Forces supported by tanks, heavy artillery, and aerial bombardment aimed at destroying Hamas positions, the infrastructure, and a wide network of tunnels with deep-penetrating bombs.
The problem with this approach is that the tunnels in Gaza are fairly sophisticated. They boast an impressive level of engineering, constructed from reinforced concrete, divided into separate self-contained sections by steel doors, and reaching depths up to 100 feet. The tunnels are also equipped with modern ventilation systems powered by generators. They were built under buildings, hospitals, schools, and other civilian projects.
To complicate the matter, many sections following intense bombardments now lie buried under the rubble of destroyed buildings. The rubble provides an additional layer of protection against concrete-buster ammunition. Even if the IDF successfully destroys the tunnels, and it is a big if, there is a fairly high possibility that the hostages will be lost.
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To eradicate Hamas and ensure safe passage for the hostages, the IDF should flood the tunnels with seawater.
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The flooding, if done correctly, will deprive Hamas of a safe harbor in the tunnels and force them out with the hostages where the IDF will be waiting. Even if, by some miracle, Hamas manages to avoid the IDF and leave tunnels undetected, its fighters will still lose the ammunition, rockets, and other military hardware.
At the outset of the operation, it is imperative to convey a clear message to Hamas that only those who get out with the hostages will be spared; the others will be executed on the spot. This time, Israel will manage to separate the so-called civilians from their murderous sons.
Continued…
Approved ~ MJM
