The Times of Israel Daily Briefing Day 637 - John Spencer and Lazar Berman: Is the IDF winning in Gaza?
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Jul 4, 2025 
This discussion features John Spencer, Chief of Urban Warfare Studies at the Modern War Institute, and Lazar Berman, a diplomatic correspondent with a knack for in-depth analysis. They tackle the complexities of IDF operations in Gaza's urban environment, revealing tactical dilemmas and contrasting capabilities with U.S. forces. Topics include IDF strategy evolution, technological advancements, and the balance between military actions and political goals. They also explore the humanitarian implications and the urgent need for a coherent long-term strategy.
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IDF Performance in Urban Warfare
- The IDF has performed exceptionally well given the unprecedented challenges in Gaza's urban warfare context.
- This includes dealing with tunnel networks, dense population, and complex human shields.
IDF's Unique Force Structure
- The IDF's structure includes a mix of standing forces and reserves, where reserves are sometimes considered more professional.
- This structure differs significantly from other militaries and influences operational planning.
Shift from Ground to Intelligence Focus
- Israel moved away from classic short, ground-heavy wars towards intelligence and air-focused operations.
- This shift impacted the IDF’s readiness and reliance on reserve forces for ground maneuvers.