The ground incursion into Gaza slipped under my radar until this morning. I have mixed opinions and still looking to confirm my feelings. The limited scope would suggest that this was an Israeli reconninance in force, to see just how Hamas would respond in the event of a larger scale operation. However, my worst fear may be that Olmert is half-stepping again like he did against Hezbollah, calling the operation off before the objectives could be obtained. Hamas responded to the pullout with a large round of rocket attacks. It is important that Israel quell Gaza sufficently to be able to focus on Hezbollah if needed.
In my opinion, it’s even simpler than that.
Hamas and other jihadis are lobbing qassams daily into Israel.
Most of the attempted suiciders and other types have been caught
at the border.
They found 5 tunnels around the 24th of the month I believe it was.
The jihadis use it for weapons/other goods smuggling.
Several attempts have been made by the jihadis to place explosives at
the security fence line.
Maybe Israel has had enough and is fighting back.
As for half-heartedness, I agree. Olmert needs to be agressive.
Hamas claims Gaza "victory" as Israel pulls back