Amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza, the extent to which Israel will heed U.S. advice is a critical question. Recent reports reveal that the U.S. has dispatched a team of military officials to Tel Aviv to advise Israel on its military operations in Gaza. In this article, we delve into the evolving situation, examining whether Israel will heed these pieces of advice and the implications for the ongoing conflict.
The US Urges Caution
U.S. military and diplomatic officials have expressed concerns about Israel’s approach to the conflict. As the Israeli military intensified its airstrikes on Gaza, American officials grew worried that the Israelis lacked a clear strategy to achieve their goals while minimizing civilian casualties.
A Shift in Rhetoric
In response to these concerns, the Biden administration began to shift its public rhetoric. Initially expressing unconditional support for Israel, President Biden and his administration started emphasizing humanitarian mercy and the protection of civilians during the conflict.
The Israeli Perspective
Israel’s approach has been marked by its willingness to discuss urban warfare strategies with U.S. advisors. These strategies include surgical strikes and limited, gradual ground incursions rather than massive, swift invasions. The Israeli government has also restored internet services in Gaza, following U.S. demands.
However, they remain cautious about opening humanitarian corridors, fearing that aid may fall into the hands of Hamas, further complicating the situation.
Lessons from the Past
The U.S. advice to Israel draws from its own experiences in urban warfare, particularly in Iraq, during operations in Fallujah and Mosul. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. James Glynn, who leads the delegation of U.S. advisors, played a key role in these operations, sharing his insights with the Israeli military.
The Complex Israeli Response
Israel’s response to U.S. advice is complex. While they appreciate the guidance, they remain committed to achieving their goals. The Israeli officials have emphasized their focus on "winning" rather than an exit strategy.
International Calls for a Cease-Fire
Despite international calls for a cease-fire, Israel, under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has rejected them. Diplomats and experts speculate that this may be a political calculation, with the aim of saving hostages, while recognizing that international support may wane as violence from Iranian proxies, such as Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthis in Yemen, increases.
Humanitarian Concerns
The U.S. has urged Israel to establish humanitarian corridors, pauses, and convoys for the Palestinian population. Israel has partially complied with this request, realizing that depriving hundreds of thousands of people of water and medicine could erode international support for their cause.
The question remains: will Israel listen to the U.S. advice in the ongoing conflict in Gaza? While some adjustments have been made in Israel’s approach, the ultimate path taken is yet to be determined. As the conflict unfolds, it will be essential to monitor how these consultations and shifts in strategy impact the situation on the ground.
The Balance Between Israeli Sovereignty and International Diplomacy
Should Israel Delay a Ground Invasion of Gaza?
The Biden administration has recommended to Israel the postponement of a ground invasion of Gaza. This advice serves a dual purpose: to create a window for hostage negotiations and to facilitate the delivery of essential humanitarian aid to the beleaguered Palestinian population within the sealed-off enclave. Multiple U.S. officials have underscored the importance of this approach.
Why is the US advising Israel to hold off a ground assault?
As of October 23, the United States has strongly recommended that Israel refrain from launching a ground assault in the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip. This advisory approach aligns with the U.S. efforts to secure the release of additional hostages and prepare for potential regional escalation. The United States is also maintaining open communication with Qatar, a mediator with the Palestinian militants, in these discussions, in a bid to mitigate the risk of a broader regional conflict.
Does Israel have a military blockade of Gaza?
Israel has upheld a naval blockade around Gaza since 2007. While American officials express the desire to postpone a ground invasion, they also tread carefully to avoid reinforcing the narrative propagated by Iran and its allies, suggesting that the United States secretly dictates Israel’s actions.
Will US troops be targeted if Israel invades Palestinian territory?
According to the report, the U.S. military and other officials anticipate that their forces may become targets for militant groups once Israel initiates its ground invasion of the Hamas-ruled Palestinian territory.
Is Israel invading Gaza?
Israel’s invasion of Gaza has commenced, shrouded in secrecy. Following an extensive air campaign resulting in casualties among Palestinians, a ground assault has now been initiated. The deliberate ambiguity surrounding the operation initially left external observers puzzled about the unfolding events.
Is Israel at war with Hamas?
The Israeli military has confirmed that its troops have engaged in ground operations in Gaza, resulting in the elimination of four prominent Hamas operatives. Israel previously declared the commencement of the "second stage" of its conflict with Hamas, signaling an escalation in its ground operation within Gaza.
