Accelerated recruitment and control over resources: Israeli intelligence warns of Hamas recovery

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An intelligence document issued by the Israeli Defense Forces warns that Hamas is making notable progress in rebuilding its capabilities during the ceasefire period, taking advantage of relative calm and the international focus on other regional issues.

According to the document, which was circulated on a limited basis at the political level and reported by Channel 12 (Israel), the movement is using the current phase to strengthen its military and civilian structures within the Gaza Strip, with particular emphasis on rehabilitating its military wing.

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Gradual rebuilding under the truce

Estimates indicate that Hamas is not achieving an immediate qualitative leap but is engaged in a gradual recovery process that includes reorganizing its ranks, expanding its capabilities, and conducting an accelerated recruitment campaign for new members.

The movement is also imposing increasing control over goods entering the enclave, in a step that strengthens its internal influence, alongside efforts to demonstrate a governmental and civilian presence in the areas under its control.

The document notes that regional developments, particularly in Iran and Lebanon, provide the movement with additional room for maneuver. Hamas is said to be benefiting from Israel’s and the United States’ preoccupation with other fronts, allowing it to buy time and postpone commitments related to settlement plans.

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Warnings of future repercussions

The report quotes officials within the Israeli security establishment warning that the current situation represents “rebuilding in exchange for nothing,” referring to the absence of parallel steps aimed at dismantling the movement’s capabilities or disarming it.

They stressed that the continuation of this path could lead to a return to “square one” if decisive measures are not taken to prevent the reconstitution of the movement’s military strength.

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Ongoing field operations

On the ground, the Israeli military announced that it had conducted targeted operations against armed individuals in the Gaza Strip. One fighter was neutralized in the northern part of the enclave after approaching forces near the “yellow line” in what was considered a direct threat.

In a separate incident in the south of the enclave, another armed individual was killed after crossing the “yellow line” and approaching military positions, according to a military statement.

The Israeli army stated that its forces continue to deploy in accordance with existing understandings, while emphasizing that they will keep responding to any immediate threats on the ground.

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