Air Attacks on Hamas: Pentagon May Accelerate F-15EX Deliveries to Israel

by Olawale Abaire, Warrior Editorial Fellow

..Israel has requested F-15Exs from the Pentagon, a move which suggests precision-air strikes might offer longer-term solutions to destroying Hamas while reducing damage to civilians….

In the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, the strategic and military dynamics seem complex and multifaceted. The recent statements by the Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary, Sabrina Singh, shed light on the United States’ perspective and its role in the evolving situation.

Secretary Singh has stated that the goal of dismantling Hamas, a terrorist organization that has brutally killed over 1,000 people, is shared with Israel. However, the specifics of how this operation is conducted within Rafah is a matter of ongoing discussion with the Israeli government.

If the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) penetrate Rafah and seize control of the Gazan flank of the Philadelphi Corridor, it would result in a significant setback for Hamas. This would strip them of their final significant battalions, deprive them of their last substantial urban stronghold for concealing their leadership and hostages used as human shields.

However, a full military operation in Rafah would be terrifying, given some 1.5m Gazans are sheltering in the area. Therefore, the international community has urged Israel to refrain from attacking the overcrowded city of Rafah.

The question of whether Israel can dismantle Hamas in Rafah without a major invasion is crucial. An invasion carries significant risks, including high civilian casualties and the potential for a protracted conflict that could destabilize the region further.

On the other hand, precision strikes using advanced fighter planes like the F-15 and F-35 offer a way to target Hamas infrastructure and personnel with reduced collateral damage.