How Religious Names Frame Israel's Conflicts in Gaza

Wars are typically named based on their timing, location of outbreak, or duration. However, a close examination of the wars waged by the Zionist entity on the Gaza Strip reveals a different pattern. Most of these wars bear names with biblical connotations, reflecting the ideological dimension emphasized by the extreme Zionist right wing.

The naming of these operations is not merely a casual choice; it is part of a strategy aimed at imbuing military operations with a sacred religious character. This serves to psychologically and ideologically mobilize soldiers, presenting the war as a divine mission. This framing also complicates opportunities for political settlements, as the conflict transforms into a matter of faith that is difficult to concede.

Below is an overview of the most prominent Zionist wars against Gaza, detailing the connection of their names to biblical texts:

1.    Operation "Cast Lead" (2008-2009):

This name carries a biblical connotation referring to purification by fire and the melting away of evil, as mentioned in the Book of Zechariah. It is used metaphorically for divine justice and the end of corruption.

2.    Operation "Pillar of Cloud" (2012):

The name is based on the narrative of the Exodus of the Israelites from Egypt, where, according to the Torah, the Lord went before them in a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night to guide and protect them, as stated in the Book of Exodus.

3.    Operation "Protective Edge" (2014):

A symbol of strength and steadfastness in the face of enemies, this name is derived from the Book of Isaiah, which speaks of the Lord coming with power, conveying the idea of biblical resilience and determination.

4.    Operation "Guardian of the Walls" (2021):

The name refers to the perpetual guarding of cities and people and also appears in the Book of Isaiah, where guards are tasked with warning of dangers and maintaining constant vigilance to protect Jerusalem.

5.    Operation "Breaking Dawn" (2022):

This symbolizes hope and light after darkness, and the triumph of divine light over injustice. This connotation is repeated in several places in the Torah, including the Books of Psalms, Malachi, and Micah.

6.    Operation "Iron Swords" (2023):

This name signifies overwhelming force and destruction, as mentioned in the Book of Daniel, which compares the iron kingdom to a force that crushes everything in its path.

7.    Operation "Gideon's Chariots" (Ongoing 2025):

This name is inspired by the story of Gideon in the Book of Judges, where he, with a small army, defeated many enemies with the help of the Lord. This biblical message affirms that faith and obedience are the path to victory.

These wars and their biblical names underscore that the conflict with the Zionist entity is not merely political; it is, at its core, a religious and ideological struggle. Therefore, countering this project can only be effective through a counter-ideological force that believes in one of two good outcomes: victory or martyrdom.