Israel's Shock and Societal Pressure
According to experts in Palestinian and Israeli affairs, Israel is heading towards a strategic loss following the killing of 24 soldiers and officers in the Gaza Strip within 24 hours. Dr. Raed Nairat, a Political Science professor at An-Najah University in Palestine, believes that this shock will create societal pressure, especially among the families of Israeli prisoners who are demanding an exchange deal. The Israeli army realizes that it is getting stuck in the mud of Gaza, as it entered with the aim of liberating prisoners but is now facing resistance and unable to defend itself.
Determinants for Change
Dr. Nairat points out two determinants that could bring about a change in Israel. Firstly, Washington's use of pressure against Tel Aviv, and secondly, Gaza's steadfastness and resistance against the Israeli war machine. These factors, if combined, could lead to a shift in Israel's approach.
Factors Contributing to the Shock
The shock experienced by Israel can be attributed to three variables. Firstly, Israeli society was prepared to believe that Israel would win in Gaza. Secondly, the operation took place in an area close to the Gaza envelope. Lastly, there has been an escalation of disagreements within Israeli society and leadership regarding the losses and the future of the war.
Unlikely Revenge in Gaza
Despite the assumption that the occupation may seek revenge in Gaza, Dr. Nairat explains that the lust for revenge, systematic destruction, and genocide are not linked to the nature of the operations. The occupation army has been adopting a policy of destruction since October 7, 2023. There are no voices in Israel calling for a truce unless there is pressure on the army. Therefore, the resistance has no choice but to stand firm and continue inflicting heavy losses on the occupation to break it and thwart its plans.
Netanyahu's War and Strategic Changes
Dr. Nairat believes that the current war is Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's war, and it has resulted in a succession of losses for the occupation as it goes deeper into Gaza. The strategic changes that followed October 7 will not allow Tel Aviv to return to the situation before the "Al-Aqsa Flood."
Contradiction Between Weakness and Reality
Dr. Mustafa Barghouti, the Secretary-General of the Palestinian National Initiative, states that the shock of the Maghazi operation highlights the contradiction between weakness and reality. It will have a significant impact on the Israeli army, society, and the course of the war. Israel wants a war with losses from one side, but its losses are greater than any previous war. It is sensitive to human losses and suffers economically.
Prelude to Strategic Loss
Dr. Barghouti sees a prelude to a strategic loss for Israel in the region. The illusion of Israel as an invincible force has been shattered, and its failure is becoming evident. He anticipates the rise of voices demanding an alternative approach, with the release of prisoners as a priority.
Perpetuating Israeli Failure
Dr. Barghouti concludes that the outcome will be the perpetuation of Israeli failure. He suggests that Washington may intervene to save Tel Aviv and push for a change in the current course after its failure. The Palestinians believe that Israel only understands the language of force.
US Strategic Crisis and Palestinian Suffering
Dr. Barghouti highlights the strategic crisis faced by the US, as President Joe Biden tries to maintain a balance for his re-election while supporting Israel. He believes that the US aims to pass normalization to liquidate the Palestinian issue and sell an illusion. The repeated talk about the day after the war is a distraction from the current suffering of the Palestinians and an attempt to impose leadership on them.
Source: Al Jazeera
