IDF Warns Hamas Is Rebuilding Military Capabilities Ahead of Potential Conflict

Senior officials from the IDF's Intelligence Directorate and Southern Command warned Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi last week that Hamas is actively preparing for renewed warfare. According to the officials, Hamas is manufacturing hundreds of explosives and anti-tank missiles monthly, recruiting militants aged 18 to 22, and recently began training specialized commando units. The group is also smuggling drones and communication equipment from Sinai and restoring underground infrastructure throughout the Gaza Strip.

Intelligence officers told Halevi that Hamas remains strong on the ground, faces no significant threats, and is unwilling to relinquish control over Gaza. The IDF's position, shared with U.S. officials, advocates resuming military operations, but Washington opposes this and prefers maintaining the status quo established by previous agreements. The U.S. also aims to continue pursuing the peace vision promoted by former President Trump and the peace council.

Last Friday, a planned mass protest against Hamas in Gaza failed to materialize, as Hamas deployed armed forces across the territory without interference. Israeli security sources have raised red flags about the situation, but American veto power currently limits Israeli action.

Additionally, on June 10, a senior Hamas delegation led by Mousa Abu Marzouk met with Russian officials in Moscow. A Palestinian source familiar with the talks told Kan News that discussions focused on a roadmap clause concerning disarmament and weapons storage in Gaza. Hamas expressed conditional agreement, demanding strict amendments: implementation would be exclusively managed by the "National Committee for Gaza Management," a joint Palestinian body; international stabilization forces would operate only with direct faction coordination; and guarantees that no disarmed weapons would be handed over to Israel or any external party.

Separately, a video revealed Hamas had planned an attack in Europe on the anniversary of October 7. There are also reports that Iran is attempting to link the Palestinian arena to a potential U.S. agreement.