Wed Jan 01 09:09:50 UTC 2025: ## Israel’s Gaza Offensive: A Costly War with Unclear Objectives, Says New Book Excerpt
**Jerusalem** – A new excerpt from Stanly Johny’s upcoming book, “Original Sin: Israel, Palestine and the Revenge of Old West Asia,” paints a grim picture of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, highlighting the devastating consequences of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza and raising questions about its strategic goals.
Following a Hamas attack in October 2023, Israel launched a large-scale military operation, vowing “mighty vengeance.” The offensive involved weeks of air strikes, followed by a ground invasion that resulted in the near-total destruction of northern Gaza, including Gaza City. Over one million people were ordered to evacuate their homes.
The excerpt details Israel’s use of what it calls “disproportionate force,” echoing its tactics in previous conflicts like the 2006 Lebanon war. Interviews with Israeli officials and citizens reveal a range of opinions on the conflict’s impact and justification.
An Israeli journalist described the economic devastation in Jerusalem, with usually bustling markets now eerily quiet. He acknowledged the high cost of the war for Israelis, while also debating the culpability of Gaza’s population, given Hamas’s electoral victory and stated aim of Israel’s destruction. However, he also criticized the IDF’s tactics, questioning their effectiveness and long-term strategic value.
A Likud MK, Boaz Bismuth, predicted the war would last at least a year, prioritizing the return of hostages and the elimination of Hamas. He defended Israel’s actions, even amidst mounting international condemnation over civilian casualties, stating that he was at war with Hamas, not the civilian population.
A senior Israeli diplomat, Michel Ronen, acknowledged the erosion of international support for Israel’s actions and the difficulties in maintaining international legitimacy for its military operations. He emphasized the priority of securing the release of hostages, but admitted uncertainty about the prospects for a lasting ceasefire. He also revealed a growing skepticism within Israel about the viability of a two-state solution.
The excerpt concludes with a sense of uncertainty and unresolved questions. The war’s high cost, both human and economic, is undeniable, while the long-term strategic objectives remain unclear, raising concerns about the possibility of a sustainable peace in the region.
First Piper 