 |
|
This article delves into the intricate planning behind Hamas's deadly assault on Israel, revealing a more ambitious operation than the one carried out on October 7th. According to documents obtained by US media outlets, Hamas originally envisioned a far larger and more devastating attack, but strategically delayed its execution to secure crucial support from Iran and Hezbollah. These revelations shed light on the complex dynamics of the conflict and expose the intricate network of actors involved.
The leaked documents, including meeting minutes and correspondence, detail Hamas's strategic discussions from January 2022 to August 2023, highlighting their focus on a “big project” that aimed for significant damage to Israel. These plans involved cross-border attacks targeting both military and civilian sites, and were accompanied by numerous requests for financial and military aid from Iranian officials. Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar’s letters to Iranian leaders, dated as early as June 2021, explicitly appealed for support in rebuilding Hamas's capabilities following previous clashes with Israel and preparing for a larger-scale confrontation.
Although Hamas eventually launched its attack on October 7th without direct assistance from Iran and Hezbollah, the documents suggest a clear intention to coordinate the assault with these allies. The delay in execution was reportedly attributed to the need for further preparations by Iran and Hezbollah. This highlights the interconnectedness of the conflict, demonstrating how Hamas's actions are deeply influenced by the support and resources it receives from external actors. While Iran has vehemently denied any involvement in the Hamas attack, the leaked documents raise serious questions about the extent of Tehran's knowledge and potential complicity.
The broader context of the Middle East conflict is marked by escalating violence, with casualties in Gaza exceeding 42,000 and the fighting extending to Lebanon and Iran. The war has triggered fears of further escalation, particularly following Iran's ballistic missile attack on Israel. With Israeli forces engaged in a ground invasion of Lebanon, clashes between Israeli troops and Hezbollah fighters have become a regular occurrence. The potential for this conflict to spiral out of control is immense, necessitating a delicate balance between military action and diplomatic efforts to bring about a ceasefire and resolve the underlying issues that fuel the ongoing violence.
Source: 'Big Project': Hamas Planned An Assault Deadlier Than October 7 And Sought Help From Iran, Hezbollah