Netanyahu Warns Hamas May Attack to Influence Israeli Elections

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned on Tuesday that Hamas, despite being weakened, might attempt terror attacks in the coming months to influence Israel's upcoming elections. He stated that Israel is prepared for any scenario, will thwart any attack attempts, and will respond with unprecedented force to any missteps by adversaries. Netanyahu made these remarks during a government meeting, also referencing the upcoming third anniversary of the "War of Independence" and increased preparations for the elections.

Reflecting on the October 7th massacre, Netanyahu stated that 4,000 out of approximately 6,000 Hamas terrorists who infiltrated Israel have been eliminated, emphasizing that "none of them have immunity" and that Israel is determined to reach them all until Hamas's rule in Gaza is completely eradicated. He also highlighted two significant shifts in the region: Israel's emergence as the strongest nation in the Middle East and a revival in the Gaza border communities and northern settlements, with about 90% of residents returning home.

Earlier, Defense Minister Israel Katz ordered the IDF to significantly increase alert levels in the Gaza Strip due to intelligence indicating Hamas's intentions to carry out attacks against IDF soldiers on a symbolic day. While no specific attack plan has been identified, this directive comes amid recent security incidents, including attempted ambushes and the constant threat of abductions. Katz stressed the importance of operational readiness and warned Hamas that any harm to IDF presence would result in a disproportionately heavy price for the organization and Gaza residents.