Israel is considering resuming its contentious practice of assassinating leaders in the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip in an effort to halt intensified rocket attacks on Israel’s south. That Israel might renew a practice that brought it harsh international censure is evidence of the tight spot Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is in. Some Israelis are demanding a harsh military move, perhaps a repeat of Israel’s bruising incursion into Gaza four years ago. Others believe Israel should target Hamas leaders, a method it used to kill dozens of Palestinians nearly a decade ago. Advocates say targeted killings are an ‘effective deterrent’ without the complications associated with a ground operation, chiefly civilian and Israeli troop casualties. Proponents argue they also prevent future attacks by removing their masterminds.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday (November 13) visited the southern city of Beesheba, where he told municipal officials that Israel will strike against the Palestinian attacks.