In a startling revelation, Hamas has accused Israeli entities of impersonating humanitarian aid organizations to collect intelligence and coerce Gaza residents.
In a tense admission, a high-ranking official within Hamas's internal security apparatus disclosed to Al-Jazeera yesterday (Wednesday) that Israel has intensified its efforts to recruit Gaza residents for intelligence gathering on terrorist organizations within the Strip.
The senior official reported that their internal security recently apprehended several individuals suspected of collaborating with Israel, who are currently under investigation. In a chilling accusation, the Hamas source claimed Israeli operatives are masquerading as humanitarian aid organizations to gather intelligence and exert pressure on Gaza residents through threats.
"We urgently call on citizens across the Gaza Strip to remain vigilant against 'the occupation''s deceptive tactics," the Hamas official implored, adding that their internal security is actively countering Israeli Military Intelligence's recruitment attempts in a high-stakes game of cat and mouse.
Hamas definitely has reason to be worried: Recent reports from Saudi news channel Al-Hadath suggested that a Hamas message courier provided crucial information leading to the assassination of Mohammed Deif, the elusive head of the group's military wing. Adding to the intrigue, the Jewish Chronicle subsequently reported that Israeli undercover agents had daringly operated within Gaza to gather intelligence for the operation.
In a parallel development, Hamas also issued an official complaint accusing Palestinian Authority security forces of taking action against militants in the West Bank. The terror group claims these actions include confiscating weapons, dismantling explosive devices, and disrupting planned ambushes against the IDF. Hamas bitterly accused the Palestinian Authority of cooperating with Israel in these efforts.
This unfolding situation casts a spotlight on the complex and often dangerous dynamics of intelligence gathering and counter-intelligence operations in the region, as well as the deep-seated tensions between various Palestinian factions.
* Israel Hayom contributed to this article.