Is the IDF losing deterrence by pulling out of Gaza? - opinion

• Published date: 10 April 2024
• Author: DR. MOSHE ELAD
• Publication title: Jerusalem Post, The: Web Edition Articles (Israel)

On the other hand, in Lebanon, especially in Hezbollah, they are confident that Israel left only symbolic forces in the Gaza Strip because the IDF is concentrated on reinforcing the North and is planning a major attack on southern Lebanon to return Israel's northern residents to their homes

The Iranians definitely interpret the Israeli move as another step in the war against Iran, in case conflict with Iran hurts Israel to such an extent that Israel will be forced to consider further action to maintain its deterrence power. Hamas may interpret the partial withdrawal of IDF soldiers from the Gaza Strip as a result of the terrorist group's strong stance and refusal to approve hostage deals, as Israel has been hoping for a long time, and due to Israel's inability to achieve war objectives until the end.

Only in Israel do they say that this is a tactical decision, part of it intended to rejuvenate the troops and part of it to build renewed readiness for a wide operation in Rafah. It must be acknowledged that the steps taken by the IDF, as per the instructions of the political echelon, seem somewhat puzzling and add to a number of other puzzling steps that have been made recently. Such a step was supposed to be taken in preparation for a possible short= or long-term hostage deal and ceasefire, as suggested by the Americans, Egyptians, and Qataris. Yet, the IDF decided to withdraw from Gaza even before completing its operations, while most of the hostages are still kept in Hamas tunnels without any plan for their release.

The IDF is losing momentum

Either way, the IDF is...