Operation Cast Lead

Cross posted by Findalis

Just some of the highlights that came out of Operation Cast Lead.

GOC Southern Command Daily Orders, 23 Jan 2009, 11:11 IST

Fighters and Commanders of the IDF in the Southern Front,

For the last month, IDF forces, both in reserve and regular service, together with forces of the ISA, operated in a concentrated campaign against terrorism in the Gaza Strip. Operation Cast Lead was initiated on December 27th, [the sixth day of the Holiday of Chanukah], when an aerial attack was directed against central terrorist command centers and outposts. The operation continued in the weeks to follow in a ground campaign aimed at terrorist sites throughout all of Gaza.

After years of continuous intentional terror attacks on Israeli civilians in southern Israel, the operation brought forth a new security situation, making clear that Israel will not allow its existence in this region to be doubted or questioned.

IDF fighters on the ground, in the air, and at sea, operated out of a strong belief in the righteousness of our way and demonstrated a steadfast fighting spirit, ambition, and a maintenance of the goal of this mission, while operating with a sense of comradeship and brotherhood in arms.

The cooperation between the various operating forces, as well as the presence of commanders in the front lines, were central factors behind the operation’s success.

The defense of our right to a safe and peaceful life in Israel had once again come at a high cost. 13 of Israel’s finest - fighters, commanders and civilians - were lost in the campaign for the security of Israel’s south. We lower our heads and our flag in honor of their memory, and mourn with their families. We extend a wish of full recovery to the wounded, and once more emphasize that we will do our utmost to return the kidnapped soldier, Gilad Shalit, to the warmth of his family.

The battle for the security of the state of Israel is yet to be over. We shall look onward, to the challenges of the future, knowing that we will successfully engage them, thanks to the righteousness of our way and our courageous spirit.

The Southern Command expresses its appreciation to the corps of the IDF for defending Israel and its people.

Yoav Galant,

Major General GOC Southern Command

Some major video highlights:

Hamas Uses Schools and Ceasefire to Shoot Rockets at Israel




View at YouTube

Night Strike on Hamas Terrorists 14 Jan. 2009




View at YouTube

Israel Air Force Strikes Hamas Offices and Armed Grad Launchers 31 Dec. 2008




View at YouTube

And from Honest Reporting:

Send a soldier a smile trip 2




View at YouTube

In the 15 days of the ground offensive the IDF lost 9 men with 336 wounded.

Many believe that the IDF stopped too soon and didn't fulfill its objectives. I agree. And make no mistake about the outcome. Israel showed the world it has the determination and will to take on Hamas or any other group that attacks.