Israel has declared a state of war, marking an unprecedented step since the October 1973 war, in response to the "Al-Aqsa Flood" operation. Commenting on the reasons behind Israel's announcement and its implications, Lebanese military expert Major General Abdul Rahman Shhitli noted that the declaration puts all its resources at the disposal of the armed forces. He added in his conversation with "Our Response" that this step opens all possibilities and options, whether for an open war or a ground invasion in Gaza, pointing out that advancing on occupying Gaza would be a significant mistake for Israel, which could lead to a comprehensive war with multiple fronts.
He indicated that the decision to declare a state of war means there are no prospects for a quick settlement in days or weeks, while Palestinian resistance in Gaza seems prepared for long-term operations.
Regarding the possibility of Hezbollah entering the confrontation, he pointed out that if Israel undertakes a ground operation in Gaza, it will necessarily secure the front with Hezbollah, as it represents the most dangerous aspect in an open war. Shhitli viewed Hezbollah's firing of mortar shells as within the rules of engagement, but it does not yet signify their direct participation in the battle. He emphasized that Israel's undertaking of a ground operation would push Hezbollah to enter the conflict, as previously announced by the party, which would compel Israel to secure the front with the party by calling up reserves or mobilizing state resources for the war effort.
On Hamas's capabilities, Major General Shhitli expressed that he was not surprised by them; rather, the surprise came from the weak and confused Israeli response, clearly indicating that the Israeli army relies solely on its advanced weapons. He stated that if airpower is neutralized, the outcome, as seen, will never be in Israel's favor. He considered that the unusual attack by Palestinian factions revealed a significant intelligence failure in Tel Aviv, especially with the failure to anticipate this military action, coupled with the delayed rapid response.
He also mentioned that the Iron Dome system faced substantial criticism from within Israel itself, under the pressure of hundreds of rockets launched over hours, many of which landed within Israeli territory. It is noteworthy that "Reuters" quoted a spokesperson for the Israeli army stating that discussions will take place regarding future intelligence preparations, but the current focus remains on combat.
Major General Shhitli clarified that the Palestinian side announced the launch of 5,000 rockets in the first 24 hours of the attack, with a single volley consisting of 100 to 150 rockets. This caused what is referred to in military terms as "saturation," meaning the number of rockets launched exceeded the interception capacity of the Israeli Iron Dome system. He added that based on this large number of rockets, the Iron Dome did not succeed in intercepting all of them, as a significant portion got through, and the portion that passes is the most crucial as it is fired at low and very low altitudes, using less precise types of rockets, while precise rockets are launched from higher altitudes, which causes the Iron Dome to engage more with lower-altitude threats as they represent a greater danger.
Everyone in Lebanon is aware of the delicacy and seriousness of the situation. Regarding the Lebanese interior and the reaction of politicians from various affiliations, Major General Shhitli affirmed that Arab and international public opinion largely supports what Hamas has done in response to the actions of the Israeli government, led by Benjamin Netanyahu, against Al-Aqsa Mosque and Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza.
In response to a question about the Syrian front, Major General Shhitli confirmed that Iranian-affiliated armed factions could move at the appropriate time to support the internal front, which would send a clear signal that the conflict is heading towards a regional escalation.
