Hamas Plans Revenge Attack on IDF, Israel Warns of Strong Response

Israeli military officials are increasingly concerned that Hamas is planning retaliatory attacks following a series of targeted killings in Gaza and the detention of a key Hamas security chief. Sources within the Southern Command suggest that militants may attempt guerrilla-style assaults on IDF positions or attacks on military patrols along the Gaza border fence, referred to as the "yellow line." A rocket barrage targeting Israel is also considered a possibility, primarily as a show of force to demonstrate Hamas's continued offensive capabilities.

According to the Walla news portal, Israeli military command believes Hamas is hoping the United States will prevent the IDF from conducting extensive ground operations in Gaza. This could incentivize Hamas to act in the near future, potentially before elections in Israel and the U.S.

The recent arrest of a senior Hamas internal security chief has heightened concerns. Israeli defense officials view him as a crucial figure who could provide intelligence on Hamas operations, plans, leadership, methods, and newly appointed field commanders. Following the arrest, the IDF raised its alert level, anticipating a potential terrorist response.

Simultaneously, Israel has conveyed a stern warning to Hamas through intermediaries: any attack on Israeli soldiers or civilians from Gaza will be met with an extremely harsh response. A further assessment of the situation in the Southern Command is scheduled before Rosh Hashanah, which could lead to increased troop deployments in Gaza and another warning to Hamas.

Defense Minister Israel Katz reiterated Israel's policy, stating, "Our policy is this: we do not wait for threats, we pursue Hamas terrorists, eliminate them, and destroy terrorist infrastructure." He added, "The response to every launch from Gaza will be powerful and clear. The test will not be their launches, but our response, and it will be harsh."