Analysis: As tensions rise between Israel and Palestine, the militant Palestinian group Hamas has unleashed a surprise assault. On October 7, they fired a barrage of rockets at Israel and managed a significant territorial breach. Commentary from “Niu Tan Qin”, a prominent Chinese political analyst and former Global Times editor, highlights two major missteps on Israel’s part: intelligence lapses and a delayed military response.
This isn’t a mere coincidence. As we approach the 50th anniversary of the Yom Kippur War, another war looms.
For Israel, this feels like an all-too-familiar declaration of war.
A somber Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu addressed his nation on October 7, stating, “We are in a state of war. This isn’t a one-off operation or a series of attacks. Today, Hamas launched a shocking offensive… They will pay an unprecedented price. We’re engaged in battle, but we’re determined to win.”
The gravity of the situation is evident. This could be the most devastating attack Israel has faced in decades.
- Early on the 7th, Hamas initiated a relentless attack from the Gaza Strip, launching thousands of rockets within just two hours.
- More alarmingly, Hamas fighters managed to breach the famed Israeli separation barrier, infiltrating Israeli cities and leaving a trail of casualties.
- Video footage paints a grim picture: a fiercely burning Israeli tank, wounded soldiers being dragged away by Hamas, and Israeli civilians being taken. Reports suggest that dozens of Israeli soldiers, including a high-ranking general, have been captured.
- The day’s conflict took a heavy toll: over 250 Israelis dead, and more than 1,000 injured. On the Palestinian side, casualties exceeded 200. This marks one of Israel’s most significant losses in recent history.
- By nightfall, fierce battles raged at 22 locations. An Israeli general’s warning was stark: “Hamas has unleashed hell.” Meanwhile, Hamas leaders signaled they were nearing a monumental victory.
For the Israeli government, this assault must have been unexpected.
In response, the Israeli cabinet convened an emergency session. The nation is now on a war footing. Massive troop mobilizations are underway, with residents in central and southern Israel urged to stay close to bomb shelters.
Israel’s defense forces initiated a counter-operation named “Iron Sword”, signaling a large-scale aerial assault on Gaza. Netanyahu’s stern warning to Gaza’s residents was clear: evacuate, or face total devastation.
Meanwhile, Hamas proclaimed a new campaign against Israel, named “Al-Aqsa Flood”. Their rallying cry to Palestinians was unmistakable: “If you have a weapon, use it.”
Retaliatory measures by Israel are imminent, and there’s a looming possibility that other groups, like Hezbollah, might enter the fray.
Upon initially hearing this news, I admit to a degree of indifference. Having spent two years in Jerusalem during some of the most tumultuous periods of Israel-Palestine conflict, I assumed this was just another episode. But the scale and intensity of this attack are indeed unparalleled.
From my perspective:
- Israel’s glaring intelligence oversight echoes mistakes made during the Yom Kippur War 50 years ago. How could an operation of this scale by Hamas, especially timed around the anniversary of the Yom Kippur War, go unnoticed? Where were the fabled intelligence agencies like Mossad and Shin Bet?
- The delayed response of the Israeli army was equally concerning. The robust defense forces seemed unprepared for the magnitude of the assault.
In looking to the future, I remain deeply pessimistic. The Middle East has been a cauldron of conflict for decades, and this latest episode feels like the opening act of a broader tragedy. The hope for lasting peace remains elusive.
Despite the grim outlook, my wish remains for peace in this turbulent region. To those living amidst the conflict: stay vigilant and safe.
