A leading political scientist and military expert has voiced strong criticism regarding plans for the potential expansion of military operations in the Gaza Strip. Professor Carlo Masala, of the Faculty of State and Social Sciences at the University of the German Federal Armed Forces Munich, described the decision as lacking strategic or military rationale in comments to the Funke Media Group publications. The Israeli Security Cabinet recently approved a move to broaden the conflict, including the potential capture of Gaza City.
Masala characterized the initiative as primarily driven by domestic political considerations, suggesting it represents an attempt by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to consolidate his position. “Expanding operations endangers the soldiers of the IDF, an army already significantly strained after 22 months of conflict across multiple fronts” he stated. “It also jeopardizes the lives of Israeli hostages.
Even in the event of a successful occupation of the Gaza Strip, Masala anticipates sustained resistance. He warned that Hamas and other militant groups are likely to attract new recruits and that Israel risks further international isolation as a result.