Considering Hamas' Intent in Targeting Tel Aviv

Warning sirens sounded Nov. 15 in Tel Aviv when a rocket fired from the Gaza Strip reportedly landed in the water just south of the city. Both Hamas' armed wing, the Izz al-Deen al-Qassam Brigades, and Palestinian Islamic Jihad claimed responsibility for launching rockets targeting Tel Aviv. More attacks aimed at Tel Aviv are likely in store, making an Israeli ground incursion in Gaza highly likely at this point.

Tel Aviv is a redline for the Israelis, one that Hamas and its affiliates are highly conscious of and that they deliberately crossed. This is no longer a series of provocative attacks; Hamas is now engaged in war with Israel. However, Hamas' intentions are far from clear.