**Title: The West Block: Middle East Crisis and Israeli Response**
**Date: Sunday, October 15, 2023**
**Host: Mercedes Stephenson**
**Location: Ottawa, ON**
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The Middle East on the Edge: Israel’s Mourning and Anger, Gazan Civilians’ Desperate Escape
Welcome to another episode of The West Block. Today, we dive into the chaos unfolding in the Middle East. Israel mourns its fallen while vowing to never experience such devastation again. Meanwhile, innocent civilians in Gaza are fleeing for their lives.
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Israel Gears Up for Action, Fear of Escalating Conflict Looms
Just one week after the harrowing attacks perpetrated by Hamas on Israeli civilians, the nation braces itself for war. In an exclusive interview, I spoke with IDF spokesperson Lt.-Col. Peter Lerner, who revealed ongoing secret Israeli Special Forces raids near the border. Lerner disclosed that 126 individuals have been taken hostage. As these covert operations continue, Israel remains on high alert.
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Hezbollah on Notice: Israel’s Warning Amid Escalating Tensions
Amid growing concerns of a possible northern front opening, Lt.-Col. Lerner issued a stern warning to Hezbollah. Fatal skirmishes have already occurred, with Hezbollah firing anti-tank guided missiles into Israel. Lerner advises Hezbollah to closely observe Israel’s effective dismantling of Hamas’ government, leadership, and operational capabilities. He urges caution, emphasizing the consequences of crossing further boundaries.
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Preparing for the Ground Offensive: Israel’s Response to Hamas
Today, we are joined by Reserve Brig. Gen. Amir Avivi, Chairman of the Israel Defense and Security Forum. Avivi, a former IDF deputy commander in the Gaza division, sheds light on Israel’s preparation for the looming ground offensive against Hamas.
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The Asymmetrical Battle: Israeli Intelligence and the Fight Against Hamas
Brig. Gen. Avivi discusses the intelligence gathering process and Hamas’ capabilities. As Hamas is more akin to a well-armed militia than a simple terrorist organization, their arsenal includes drones, anti-tank missiles, IEDs, grenades, machine guns, tunnels, and cyber capabilities. Two-thirds of the Gaza Strip serve as a fortified stronghold filled with tunnels, bunkers, and positions. Avivi emphasizes the need for aggressive and strategic maneuvers, extensive air force support, and artillery to minimize casualties and dismantle terrorist infrastructures.
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The Liberation of Gaza: The Road Ahead
Drawing from his experience as former deputy commander of the Gaza division, Gen. Avivi provides insight into the possible timeframe for Israeli troops’ efforts to reclaim Gaza. He highlights the complexity of the operation, including the careful targeting of terrorist infrastructures, such as tunnels, rocket launchers, bunkers, and headquarters. Avivi emphasizes that the process will take months and aims to ultimately transform Gaza into a secure civilian area.
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Israel’s Plan for the Gaza Strip: Freedom of Operation
When asked about the possibility of Israel annexing the Gaza Strip, Gen. Avivi stresses the need for complete freedom of operation throughout the region, similar to the Israeli presence in Jenin and Nablus. This strategy ensures the ability to effectively combat any terrorist threats that may arise, offering security to the residents of the Gaza Strip.
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The Iranian Factor: Tehran’s Role in Recent Escalations
Gen. Avivi reveals Iran’s extensive involvement in the ongoing conflict. Highlighting Hamas and Hezbollah as Iranian militias directly supported and funded by Iran, Avivi asserts that Iran plays a significant role in decision-making processes. He suggests that Iran aims to disrupt the formation of a Western Israeli-Sunni coalition, which sought to counter the Russian-Iranian-Chinese front.
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Ready for a Multi-Front War? Israel’s Readiness and Global Implications
To address concerns of a potential multi-front war, Gen. Avivi assures us that Israel is fully prepared. The entire military and the nation as a whole have mobilized. Israel stands ready to defend itself against any threat. Avivi stresses that the conflict extends beyond Israel, portraying it as a global war challenging the West. He highlights the involvement of the United States, which demonstrates a willingness to fight against Iran and Hezbollah. While Iran may hesitate to involve Hezbollah, as it would leave them vulnerable, Gen. Avivi asserts that Israel will be ready for any scenario.
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With the crisis in the Middle East escalating, Israel stands resolute in its determination to protect its citizens. As the region teeters on the brink of a wider war, the world watches with bated breath to see what will unfold next.
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