Despite possessing sufficient intelligence and surveillance capabilities, how is it possible that the Israeli military failed to anticipate or detect signs of an impending attack on Israel by Hamas within Gaza? The remarkable proficiency in military tactics, combined with astonishing knowledge of the Israeli security system facilitated Hamas to outmaneuver the imposing defences of Israel, leaving a profound impact on the global stage. Nevertheless, Israeli military officials recognised major lapses and failur in intelligence and security concerning the extraordinary and fatal attacks coordinated by Hamas. The assault occurred as retaliation against the continuous disregard and abuse of Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank. However, some analysts speculate that there may have been undisclosed underlying reasons. It is worth noting that before the attack Israel and Saudi Arabia were moving ahead towards normalising the diplomatic relationship strongly opposed by Hamas and Iran. In nutshell, Hamas managed to accomplish its goal to stall the peace process by dealing a major blow to Israel. Once the dust has settled, there will be an opportunity for continuous US diplomacy to revive the Middle East Peace Process. The focus for Israel in the conflict is to deal a decisive strong upset to Hamas, effectively incapacitating their capability of launching rockets as well as dismantling extensive system of underground tunnels. However, this time, the approach is different. With complete determination, Israel aims to eradicate Hamas comparing it to the Islamic State (IS) group in terms of existence. When confronted with an unyielding Israeli retaliation, Hamas is expected to demonstrate an equal level of cunningness. Hamas has a profound presence in both Palestinian and Egyptian societies, fulfilling political and social roles unlike the IS group. While a military offensive may be capable of destroying physical structures made of metal and concrete, it cannot eradicate the unwavering determination of individuals who are willing to sacrifice their lives for their cause; if anything; their resolve is likely to be hardened. Despite periods of relative peace, the Egyptian government has consistently imposed limitations on entry into Gaza via the Rafah crossing. Hamas, which originated from the Muslim Brotherhood, a century-old organization in Egypt, seeks to reshape states and societies according to Islamic teachings and principles. While Egypt’s current regime maintains relations with Hamas and has served as a mediator between Hamas and Israel in the past, it actively avoids an influx of Palestinian refugees. The suffering of innocent civilians in Gaza has evoked deep concern among the Egyptian masses, eager to extend their support to Hamas. Hezbollah has long been regarded by Israel as a significantly stronger entity as compared to Hamas. The Center for Strategic Studies has reported that this extensively armed group, backed by Iran, has a more formidable arsenal of rockets and missiles. Comprising guided anti-aircraft and anti-ship missiles, the inventory possesses the capability to strike deep within Israeli territory. Members of Hezbollah claim that the group is made up of roughly 100,000 fighters, but estimates from independent sources range from 40,000 to 50,000 personnel. Hamas, on the other hand is said to possess comparatively lesser number of fighters. The loss of civilian lives and the delay in urgent calls for international intervention have rightly sparked widespread concern. However, the United Nations response has been somewhat measured. The Israeli airstrikes are disproportionately indiscriminate. The protracted conflict illuminates the intricate nature and immense seriousness as innocent lives are tragically lost amid the crossfire. Is there a chance that this situation could escalate into another major conflict, potentially resulting in another regional or global war? Should Iran decide to actively participate in the ongoing conflict, would the United States and its allies be obliged to join the war? In response to these concerns, the United States has taken a strong stance by recently deploying two aircraft carrier battle groups to the eastern Mediterranean, serving as a clear message to Iran to refrain from any involvement for expansion of the conflict on wrung of escalation ladder. The goal is to highlight that not only Israel will resist but also the American military capabilities will be used against any misadventure. The intent is to emphasise that any intervention would not only face resistance from Israel but also incur the comparable force of American military potentials. Both sides involved are fully cognizant of the risks associated with such a conflict scenario. Should the conflict evolve from a lingering tension into an all-out war, there is a strong likelihood that it would spark an extensive and momentous conflagration in the Middle East, severely impacting the globe. Once the dust has settled, there will be an opportunity for continuous US diplomacy to revive the Middle East Peace Process. Currently, this analogy does not imply the likelihood of engaging in substantive negotiations to resolve the nerve-breaking never-ending conflict; the indispensable factors needed to establish a propitious milieu for diplomatic talks are conspicuously absent. Hamas has rendered itself ineligible for involvement in any political process, leaving no other Palestinian factions with the potential to negotiate from the position of political strength. The Israeli leaders have not displayed any greater willingness to engage in serious negotiations, while the Palestinian Authority continues to be frail deficient of public support. “The victory march will continue until the Palestinian flag flies in Jerusalem and in all of Palestine.” -Yasser Arafat The writer is a retired Pakistan Army Officer and can be reached at nawazish30@hotmail.com