The Challenge of Urban Warfare

Urban warfare presents unique challenges due to the dense infrastructure, population, and presence of combatants and noncombatants. The Modern War Institute has been studying urban warfare, particularly in the context of Israel. Israel, being a small country with specific defense scenarios, has developed expertise in urban operations. However, the IDF is likely to face unexpected challenges despite its training, as Hamas has been governing Gaza for years, creating defensive positions and a network of tunnels. Additionally, the IDF's plan to send a large number of soldiers into heavily urbanized Gaza demonstrates their intention to neutralize Hamas' military capability completely.