We actually looked to the IDF as we prepared for guerilla warfare in the streets and alleys of Iraq. They have had much experience in Jenin and other small towns. You might say this has been the type of war the Iraeli’s have been fighting year in and year out.
The problems will begin if they cannot fight with an element of freedom as was the case in Lebanon.
Israel lost 4% of her entire population in the war of Israeli Independence in 48. Far more that a few hundred.
Hamas and Hezbollah (I choose older spelling) are clowns compared to a disciplined army like the IDF.
Let me put the difference another way: If youwere idealogically neutral, would you prefer to throw you lot with Israel or with the Hamas?
And even in Lebanon where IDF hands were tied they lost few Merkavas to damage which couldn’t be repaired.
Far better to be in a Merkava than to be in position firing a sagger (if I have my nomenclature right) missile.