Israel and Gaza – What is the endgame?
The conflict between Israel and Gaza could continue for weeks, even months. So what's the plan once the fighting has stopped?
There's no sign of the fighting between Israel and Gaza coming to an end any time soon: at the moment, it appears the military, politicians and the international community are all concentrating on what is happening on the ground.
This isn't the first time Israel has responded to attacks from Palestinian groups by sending land forces beyond its borders.
But such previous operations in Gaza and Lebanon suggest the authorities often overlook the endgame and do not plan for life after the fighting ends.
Throughout his career the Â鶹Éç's World Affairs Editor John Simpson has reported from many conflicts around the world, including several involving Israel.
In this episode of our 5 Questions On podcast, Michael Daventry asks him what those involved wants to achieve from this conflict. (Image: EPA/Â鶹Éç)