A team of Canadian special operations forces have been sent to Israel following the October 7 attack, according to sources with direct knowledge of the mission. The deployment includes Joint Task Force 2 (JTF2), Canada’s elite special forces unit responsible for counterterrorism and hostage rescue. The Canadian troops are supporting security at the Canadian embassy and liaising with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Major-General Denis Thompson, a former commander of CANSOFCOM, stated that this deployment is in line with previous practices and highlights the close relationship between Canadian and Israeli special forces. Thompson also mentioned the possibility of JTF2 assisting in hostage rescue planning, although he did not mention any independent rescue efforts. However, JTF2 has never carried out a hostage rescue operation in the past.

The purpose of deploying special operations forces in tense environments, including Israel, is to provide intelligence, assist in evacuation planning, and enhance embassy security. The current deployment should not be seen as Canadian troops participating in the Israeli offensive in Gaza. According to Thompson, the IDF’s ground offensive against Hamas is expected to take several months due to the complex nature of the conflict. Thompson drew parallels with the Iraqi army’s nine-month operation to clear Mosul of ISIS fighters in 2017 and emphasized the challenges faced by the IDF in an urban environment. He also stated that the advantage may be in Hamas’s favor due to their familiarity with the area.

The IDF’s recent raids in Gaza are likely aimed at gathering intelligence and contributing to the systematic isolation of individual neighborhoods. Thompson explained that this isolation involves surrounding the area with armored vehicles to prevent movement and then conducting meticulous clearing operations to neutralize Hamas fighters, destroy equipment and weapons, and rescue hostages. He highlighted the potential use of improvised explosives and anti-tank guided weapons by Hamas to hinder the IDF’s progress. The IDF’s use of the indestructible Merkava IV tanks and the challenges of urban warfare were also discussed.

The article concludes with the expectation of intense fighting in Hamas’s underground tunnels, highlighting the hazardous nature of close-quarter combat in such environments. Thompson mentioned the possible use of drones and trained dogs with cameras to assist in exploration and planning, as well as the limitations of night-vision goggles underground. The article emphasizes the tough fight ahead and the likelihood of heavy casualties.

Note: This article has been edited and condensed for clarity.