Israel Matzav

More indications the ground operation is coming

Tonight, my 20-year old son went to an elementary school class reunion at the principal's house. One kid who was supposed to show up didn't. The kid who didn't show up just passed an officer's training course and was mobilized to Gaza tonight. Hope the kid who was called up is safe - the new officer (NOT MY SON) is supposed to be married next month God willing.

That would seem to confirm this story from YNet.

The IDF has also begun mobilizing tanks and reinforcement infantry troops to the Gaza region in the event a ground incursion is ordered. In an interview with the British SKY network, Defense Minister Ehud Barak said that ground forces would indeed enter the Strip if the move was deemed necessary by Jerusalem.

Barak did not declare outright that there would be a ground offensive, but said that he could not presume to guess what Hamas' next move would be and therefore was preparing the military for any contingency.

In a message tailored to the British public, the defense minister said the British government would also not tolerate incessant attacks against its civilian population.

"I remember the British government crossing half the globe to protect British citizens that were attacked," he said.

In a later interview with FOX, Barak addressed the American public and said that asking Israel to agree to a ceasefire with Hamas would be like asking the US to agree to a ceasefire with Al-Qaeda.

Barak, who suspended all campaigning events for the duration of the operation, will brief government ministers on the progress of the strike in Gaza during Sunday's cabinet meeting.

I'd bet on a ground operation. There's an election coming. Sometimes, Israeli politicians need a kick in the rear end to do the right thing. The elections are providing the kick.

posted by Carl in Jerusalem @ 3:13 AM