Knesset Member Prof. Yitzchak Ben-Yisrael, chairman of the Israel Space Agency, has called for large-scale IDF counterterrorist operations in Gaza. The current policy of in-and-out search and arrest operations against Kassam rocket attacks "do not serve the interests of the country, and widespread operations are needed in order for Hamas to pay a heavy price for terrorism," he asserted.
However, he ruled out a total occupation of the Gaza region, noting that there is a difference between taking over administration of the area and conducting a massive counterterrorist operation. "We have to stop being afraid of ourselves and do what is necessary for the country's security and make clear our position in the Middle East," Ben-Yisrael added.