Israel has formally declared war and gave the green light for “significant military steps” to retaliate against Hamas following its weekend attack. More than 800 targets have been struck as Israel intensified bombardments of the Gaza Strip to crush Hamas fighters. Hamas’ unprecedented incursion and Israel’s retaliation have killed more than 1,100 people and wounded thousands on both sides. Israel’s declaration of war has portended greater fighting ahead. And a major question is whether Israel will launch a ground assault into Gaza, a move that in the past has brought more casualties.