The report envisioned Israel facing a coalition of such Iranian proxies
as Hamas and Hizbullah as well as Syria. White said the war could erupt
between Israel and Hizbullah but could soon include Hamas, estimated to
have 5,000 missiles and rockets.
"At the same time, no one should be surprised if a new war in the north
included a Gaza excursion," the report, released on Sept. 17, said. "Hamas
could decide to enter the conflict in serious fashion, employing heavy
rocket fire and long-range weapons. Alternatively, Israel could decide to
finish the job begun with Operation Cast Lead in 2008–2009."
"Hamas — assuming it became involved directly — would lose its
military power in Gaza and at least some of its political power," the report
said.
The report said Israel's military strategy would employ massive air and
naval power to destroy Hizbullah's missile and rocket network. White said
Israel was expected to seek to deter Syria from joining the war.
"Any Syrian forces and infrastructure that supported Hizbullah would
likely be targeted, and any Iranian elements supporting the group would be
subject to attack as well," the report said. "Meanwhile, Israel would
attempt to deter direct Iranian attacks on its territory via warnings and
preparation of strategic strike assets, including air, missile, and naval
forces."
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