The Gaza of post-Oct. 7 is similar, then, to the Judea and Samaria area which also lacks geographic depth for terror, and therefore poses an ongoing security challenge for us, but not a strategic threat.

Hamas has sought to parlay any deal into an end to the fighting and withdrawal of Israeli forces. Israel has ruled this out, saying it would eventually resume efforts to dismantle the governance and military capabilities of Hamas.

When pressed if there would be "consequences" from the US if Israel proceeds with the Rafah invasion despite opposition, US Vice President Kamala Harris said bluntly: "I am ruling out nothing."

Israeli sources are increasingly concerned that we are being left to our own devices when it comes to Iran. According to one researcher, Yossi Mansharof, perhaps now is the time to target Tehran's conventional capabilities.