Defense elements assess that an in-depth operation in Gaza will not
necessarily resemble Operation Cast Lead from three years ago. Its purpose
might include segmenting Gaza into several parts, taking over a route
between Gaza and Egypt, or even toppling the Hamas regime.

Gantz: “We will open a wide-ranged operation in Gaza”
Following a tense weekend in Israel’s south, defense elements assess that
the time is nearing for another operation in Gaza
IsraelDefense 19/2/2012
http://www.israeldefense.com/?CategoryID=483&ArticleID=939

In the wake of a tense weekend in southern Israel, the defense establishment
is increasing its assessments that another ground operation in Gaza “is
merely a matter of time.”

Between Saturday and Sunday, the IAF attacked targets in the Zeitoun
neighborhood in northern Gaza after six Grad rockets were launched from Gaza
towards Netivot and Be’er Sheva.

Defense elements noted that IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz recently
stated several times that the IDF is preparing for a large-scale operation
in Gaza in light of continued rocket fire into Israel. He also said that the
IDF is carrying out preparations for the possibility of such an operation.

Defense elements assess that an in-depth operation in Gaza will not
necessarily resemble Operation Cast Lead from three years ago. Its purpose
might include segmenting Gaza into several parts, taking over a route
between Gaza and Egypt, or even toppling the Hamas regime.

Situational assessments will continue in the defense establishment on
Sunday, in light of the southern escalation.