IDF Warns Hamas Is Strengthening Militarily and Preparing for War in Gaza

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

The intelligence officers told the Chief of Staff that Hamas remains strong on the ground, faces no internal threats, and is unwilling to relinquish control over Gaza. The IDF's position, shared with U.S. officials, is that military action should resume, but Washington opposes this and prefers to maintain the current status quo established by previous agreements, aiming to continue President Trump's peace vision.

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 are raising red flags about Hamas's growing strength, but American opposition currently limits Israeli options.

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 11 that discussions focused on clause 8 of the roadmap, concerning the disarmament and storage of weapons in Gaza. Hamas reportedly agreed in principle but demanded strict conditions, including exclusive implementation by the "National Committee for Gaza Management," a joint Palestinian body. The international stabilization force would operate only in coordination with Palestinian factions, with guarantees that no disarmed weapons would be transferred to Israel or any external party.