IDF Boosts Gaza Alertness Amid Fears of Hamas Election Interference

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have intensified pressure on Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad in the Gaza Strip over the past two weeks, neutralizing an average of two to three field commanders and operatives daily. A security official indicated that some of the neutralized operatives were en route to carry out missions against the IDF. Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, visiting Gaza on Tuesday, acknowledged the heightened tensions ahead of elections, stating, "Our goal is to thwart any threat and enable democratic elections to take place without external influence." The official noted a recent decrease in eliminations due to intelligence gaps, not a directive from leadership. Defense Minister Yisrael Katz has ordered an increase in intelligence gathering concerning the elections, citing concerns about attempts to influence the electoral process. The security source emphasized Hamas's interest in the Israeli elections and their impact on the "day after," adding that while there is no concrete intelligence of specific operations, "we are not taking risks." Hamas continues efforts to rebuild its military wing. Southern Command, the Air Force, Military Intelligence (Aman), and the Shin Bet are preparing for various scenarios from Gaza, including rocket fire, attacks on IDF posts, and infiltration attempts along the border fence, all aimed at disrupting public order in Israel. To prevent surprises, particularly reminiscent of the October 7th scenario, Major General Itzik Cohen, Head of the Operations Directorate, has ordered reinforcements to air, sea, and land spaces, including special forces on standby. Security officials admit intelligence is imperfect and are taking no chances, analyzing weak points and challenging observation areas to prepare ambushes and additional measures.