Israeli security cabinet turns down large-scale ops into Gaza

Israeli security cabinet decided Wednesday not to launch large-scale offensive into Gaza Strip to halt rocket attacks, local media reported.

However, Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and Defense Minister Amir Peretz agreed in the meeting that Israel Defense Forces' operations in Gaza would continue, and even become more extensive in some areas, the media said.

Ministers participating in the meeting said the plans discussed in the meeting were "more of the same," Israel Radio reported.

The military operations are aimed at countering weapons smuggling and underground tunnels used for smuggling, in the area of the so called "Philadelphi Corridor." Operations against Qassam rocket launchers will also continue.

Local Ha'aretz daily quoted Defense Minister Amir Peretz as saying Tuesday night that the military would be asked to weigh options for reoccupying areas of the Gaza Strip in order to halt the rocket barrage.

In a security briefing, Peretz said that the IDF should come up with "creative solutions" in an effort to avoid a long-term presence in Gaza.

It is reported that ahead of cabinet meeting there was split between those pressing for a full-scale offensive in the Gaza Strip and other ministers seeking a political solution.

Source: Xinhua