Why is Isr killing so many Palestinian civilians?
Isr killing of Palestinian civilians is intentional and rational although that does not alter the fact of its immortality.
This post is based on an article I wrote in 2014. Given the similarities with today's war, I believe it is important to highlight what rationalist thinking drives such policy.
Normally, the public is concerned with the humanitarian aspects of conflicts rather than with their military implications. Isr killing of Palestinian civilians is intentional and rational although that does not alter the fact of its immortality. So why kill civilians?
First, attach an economic price for the military attack. Given that Gaza has very little strategic assets to attack, people are the most valuable asset. Hence, by killing them, Palestinians incur a loss equal to the loss perceived by Isr. It is worthy to mention that to economise its arsenal, Isr is focusing its attacks on large civilians gatherings such as bigger households to maximise damage.
Second, punish them to force them to abandon Hamas and daring to resist again. In a way, this is a counterinsurgency operation. Hence, it is essential to weaken the civilian support base for the militant fighters. Many of those attacked are family members of fighters. The aim is to weaken fighters morale and to push civilians to denounce Hamas and resistance as useless and destructive. Ultimately, this should help delegtimise Hamas and uproot it.
Third, pleaae Isr to help them overcome psychological defeat. What is often not highlighted in the media is Isr incurred a military defeat. This traumatised its people and seeing the other side suffering makes them feel relief. It also creates an image of initiative and victory.
Fourth, sow distrust between the people and the leadership to hinder Hamas militarily. Destroying societal cohesion by targeting civilians is sought to enable regime change.
Fifth, retaliate for war of attrition. At the end of the day, there are no complex targets in Gaza besides homes and as the Isr economy bleeds, it needs to make Palestinian pay a similar price in lives over time.
Sixth, destroy Palestinian political aspirations and downsize them to humanitarian aid. This has been a long term goal of Isr and it has succeed in the West Bank to a large extent in achieving it and is seeking to reinforce it in Gaza.
Seventh, show strength and might to outsiders. Isr is anxiois neighbouring countries will lose respect for it and instead it becomes more isolated and insecure. By showing willingness and ability to be brutual, a psychological effect of fear is expected to deter others from thinking Isr is weak.
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