Moshe Fuzaylov: Defeating Hamas is a prerequisite for regional stability. Israel needs to act for a clear and unequivocal defeat of Hamas, during which the IDF will control the territories of the Strip, cleanse the area of terror centers, and transfer security responsibility to the IDF, via its Civil Administration, or to partner mediators. This is a critical condition for the process of defeating Hamas. IDF management will enable us to control the civilian power centers, and ensure that Hamas cannot recruit renewed support among the local population.

Prof. Col. (res.) Gabi Siboni: Expectations of an imminent end to combat in general in Gaza are unrealistic. I just want to remind us all that we have been fighting in Judea and Samaria since 2002, and we are still fighting, and probably in Gaza, we will fight for decades ahead.

The Israeli government’s goals are very clear: one, the destruction of Hamas, both civilian governance and military capabilities; two, creating conditions for the return of the hostages; and three, preventing Gaza from becoming a renewed threat to Israel.

Published in JNS, November 4, 2024.