Israeli Strikes Continue

Israel’s operation in Gaza continued today, as an airstrike destroyed Hamas’ main security complex. Israel also deployed tanks along the Gazan border and called up reservists, indicating that a ground operation in the Palestinian territory is also likely. Over 280 Palestinians have been killed, and at least 700 wounded. Commentators believe that Israel’s goal is not to retake the Gaza Strip or topple Hamas, but rather, according to The Washington Post, “to strengthen its deterrence power and force Hamas into a new truce that would lead to a long-term halt to cross-border rocket salvoes.” Hamas has meanwhile fired some 80 rockets into Israel since the operation began.