Israeli offensive seeks 'new security reality' in Gaza

Israel is aiming to "create a new security reality in Gaza" through its offensive in the Gaza Strip, even as it seeks a ceasefire agreement that will incorporate a mechanism to monitor arms smuggling to end the operation that began on 27 December 2008.

"The message of this operation is that Israel is willing to respond disproportionately for every rocket coming out of Gaza," a senior defence source told Jane's. "We want Hamas to consider this before they will fire again."

Despite initial widespread reluctance within both the military and political establishments to confront Hamas, amid concerns about achieving a decisive outcome, the first two weeks of fighting have wrought substantial destruction on the Hamas governmental infrastructure and its military capabilities.

Two years of extensive training and preparation supported the initial air strikes into Gaza, which have taken substantially into account the lessons learned from the 2006 conflict in Lebanon with the militant Hizbullah organisation.

The level of co-operation between air and ground forces, with the Israel Air Force (IAF) almost serving as the operational front line, is unparalleled, intelligence sources said. Further, the Israel Defense Force (IDF) has deployed its entire alignment of intelligence-gathering sensors to ensure accuracy.

Intelligence gathered with the assistance of the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank enabled the surprise opening strike on 27 December.

A second, land-based phase of Operation 'Cast Lead' began on 3 January in support of three objectives: to prevent rocket fire in the area of operation; to eliminate as many Hamas operatives as possible; and to capture Hamas prisoners. 259 of 1,140 words