Israeli Forces May Begin Gaza Encirclement... "A Long and Difficult War"

Israeli forces engaged in a war with the Palestinian militant group Hamas have reportedly taken control of parts of northern Gaza Strip, according to major foreign media on the 29th (local time). Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the war as "a long and difficult war," and there are speculations that instead of a full-scale invasion, the Israeli military will gradually encroach on Gaza over several months to 'eliminate' Hamas from within.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

According to multiple reports, on the 27th, the Israeli military launched a large-scale ground operation in the Palestinian Gaza Strip, seizing parts of northern Gaza. They also advanced around Beit Hanoun in northern Gaza City and Bureij, adjacent to central Gaza Strip. Unlike previous conflicts where Israeli forces entered Gaza for operations and then retreated back to Israeli territory, this time they are establishing temporary bases.

The Economist reported that this movement by the Israeli military suggests a siege of Gaza City, the largest city in the Gaza Strip. Since civilian and hostage casualties are inevitable, instead of a full-scale invasion favoring Hamas, Israel is considering a tactic of slowing down to encircle Gaza City. The Economist noted, "Hamas has stockpiled essentials such as fuel and food inside a maze-like tunnel system, but at some point, these supplies will run out." Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett also said, "Hamas expects a ground invasion lasting about 3 to 6 weeks," adding, "They probably did not anticipate such a prolonged war."

This analysis can also be inferred from Netanyahu's recent remarks. On the 27th, after the large-scale ground operation, Netanyahu held a press conference stating, "The war has entered its second phase. The goal is to destroy Hamas's governance and military capabilities and bring the hostages home," and warned, "It will be a long and difficult war."