Hamas admits: We haven't decided to retaliate; we produced weapons during the ceasefire

Hamas has acknowledged that its operatives used the recent ceasefire to recover and produce weapons, including rockets and explosives, as the group braces for a possible escalation with Israel. Sources within the terrorist organization told the London-based Asharq Al-Awsat that its military wing will soon “resume taking the initiative” to counter Israeli actions, with a response plan to be finalized in the coming hours based on battlefield conditions and mediation talks.

According to the sources, Hamas exploited months of relative calm to salvage equipment from damaged tunnels and production sites, refurbishing some and uncovering intact stockpiles of Kornet missiles and homemade Yassin-105 anti-tank rockets buried under rubble. Production, however, remains limited due to a shortage of raw materials. The group also reorganized its ranks and recruited new fighters during the truce, anticipating a return to combat. Despite this buildup, Hamas insists it does not seek escalation—contradicting Israel’s claims prior to recent strikes—and is exploring diplomatic options to avoid a full-scale IDF operation in Gaza.

The sources outlined two paths forward: either clearing the way for military action if tensions rise, or securing immediate humanitarian aid and open crossings through mediator efforts. Meanwhile, IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, speaking from Rafah, reaffirmed Israel’s dual mission: “Protect the communities here” and maintain “an ongoing operation against Hamas” while prioritizing hostage recovery. As Hamas weighs its next move, the fragile ceasefire hangs in the balance.

Walla contributed to this article