By Col Bipin Pathak (Veteran), Military Intelligence
New Delhi, Oct 31, 2023. The October 7, 2023 carnage against innocent Israeli's was a pre-planned operations which would have entailed months of planning including riposte on Israeli retaliation, rehearsals for the D Day & subterranean warfare, stocking of fuel, rations, medical, water, weapons, ammunition, missiles, alternative modes of communication & Information warfare.
This incident is not an act of urban terrorism but a limited war launched by a Brigade plus Hamas terrorists. Terrorists generally limit themselves to assassinations, car bombing, ambushes, suicide bombing. In this case it was like sea of savages attacking humanity.
Is it possible for a group to indulge in such a meticulous assault without external support. Israel seems to hv been taken for a ride by the Arab world on the pretext of bilateral negotiation for relations leading to peace. This may have resulted in Israel adopting casual approach towards potential threats from Palestinians.
Iran for ages has been the prime instigator & financier for Hamas to avenge Israeli assault on their nuclear facilities & assassinations of their scientists.
China too is a player behind the curtain as they have not condemned Hamas attack on Israeli civilians whereas condemning Israel for disproportionate attrition.
Another factor that would have encouraged China to jump into the arena is the announcement of India - Middle East - Europe corridor during the G - 20 meet, as it considers it as a hindrance to their Belt & Road Initiative.
China has good relations with Middle East & this opportunity they would like to challenge USA, who at present are undisputed negotiator of conflict management.
It is for sure the intelligence apparatus too hv been lackadaisical in intelligence collection as they failed to gather information on missile induction by Hamas, tunnelling & its refurbishment, construction of Command Centre's in Hospital complexes, training, finances, spurt in communication. Failure of the alarm system and rapid response to contain aggressors is an issue of concern.
This mayhem has resulted in thousands of deaths including children who could not enjoy this beautiful world. Created a segment of destitute.
The blame solely lies on Hamas for provoking Israel. The term Islamist Nazi's can be used for Hamas. Their hatred for Jews has caused massive loss of life, destruction of properties and wiping out generations. With each day the casualty graph is rising and the continuation of offensive would witness a complete annihilation of Palestinians if the conflict is not resolved at the earliest.
To stall the Israeli offensive incl aerial bombardment, the Palestinians should negotiate with Hamas on the futility of this conflict and convince them to surrender or take asylum in the neighbouring countries. If the entire population is wiped out than present conflict fails to achieve its aim. Palestinians should provide information on the tunnels to Israel for its destruction. Give up the demand for two nation theory by acknowledging the suzerainty of Israel.
Palestinian elders to give a guarantee of peaceful co-existence. In return Israel can show magnanimity by having a joint flag, coopting them in governance, including them in political arena , reconstruction, rehabilitation and mixed residential living. This suggestion seems unachievable but hope can be given a chance.