Israel facing 'devil's own choice' as it prepares for onslaught

Armed Forces minister James Heappey said Israel faced the “devil’s own choice” in its determination to defend itself against the terror group while also seeking to minimise civilian casualties.
He stressed that delaying a ground assault into Gaza would only allow Hamas more time to “melt away”, and move rocket and ammunition stocks, and then the risk for the offensive is that “all of this comes to nought” after the terror group’s Islamic State-style slaughter of more than 1,300 Israelis.
Israel has very sophisticated intelligence gathering capabilities which should allow it to prosecute its mission “with precision”, he argued. But former soldier Mr Heappey added on ITV’s Good Morning Britain: “That is not to say, however, that there are not going to be some incredibly grim scenes on our TV scenes over the next few days and weeks.”
He insisted that Israel was doing everything it could practically do to reduce civilian casualties, with its direction to a million people in Gaza city and the strip’s north to move to the south, which he accepted was very difficult for those forced to move. But the death toll of Palestinians in Israeli attacks in recent days has already risen above 2,700, according to health chiefs in Gaza, with whole buildings flattened. As the horrors of the conflict were growing:
Bu hikaye Evening Standard dergisinin October 16, 2023 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Giriş Yap
Bu hikaye Evening Standard dergisinin October 16, 2023 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Giriş Yap

Diver Tom Daley loves dancing at Omeara and pressing the champagne button at Bob Bob Ricard
I never really got to go “out out” that often when I was in London because I was always training. So I always appreciated going to see a drag show, going to the theatre. Jodie Harsh would always host a drag brunch on a Sunday.

London's new taste of summer
Discover Cord, a fine dining restaurant in London designed for those who appreciate refined quality.

REBECCA ADLINGTON SAVOURS SAN FRANCISCO
Cycling over the Golden Gate Bridge, shopping at Pier 39 and embracing the amazing food — the Olympic swimmer can't get enough of this place

Brick Lane's Georgian soul in a glass of wine and a slice of khachapuri
In a city ever chasing the next trend, where menus flicker and fade like neon signs in the rain, Aba-Ra stands still — a sanctuary of ancient flavours and familial warmth, as enduring as the Caucasus peaks that inspired it.

Summer styles
Fashion experts from your favourite high street brands share the styles, colours and patterns dominating the chicest of wardrobes this season.

London's summer transfer scramble
Some of Europe's hottest talents are heading for the capital as clubs compete to get their prime business done early

Why is the Mayor turning back the clock on e-vans?
A £9 congestion charge for delivery vehicles will prompt many small companies to cut bills by ditching their EVs.

Londoner's Diary
Sheer ambition from Lola Bute and Jazzyde Lisser, while Kate Moss toasts her McKnight inshining armour

THE MOST UNCOMMON CHARM OF JARVIS COCKER
One of the defining figures of 1990s Britain is back with his band Pulp. Older and wiser, he's still got the elusive magic that made him one of pop's most electric frontmen

Be my guest! Get the perfect wedding look — without upstaging the bride
Expert-approved tips for the most fabulous hair, skin, nails and make-up