IDF warns: Hamas could exploit aid to regroup for next wave of war

The IDF is expressing significant concern that Hamas might exploit the large influx of humanitarian aid flowing into Gaza to smuggle weapons and advanced equipment, preparing for another confrontation with Israeli forces.

Despite the IDF’s extensive operations, including the destruction of key underground networks used by Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad, Hamas has managed to retain portions of its infrastructure in the region.

To address this evolving threat, the Southern Command is ramping up readiness on multiple fronts. These include expanding target databases, intensifying intelligence efforts, and ensuring the maintenance and availability of tanks and other military vehicles that have been heavily used during ongoing operations.

Southern Command head Major-General Yaron Finkleman has issued directives, in coordination with the IDF Operations Directorate, Military Intelligence, and the Israel Air Force, to draft plans for the next stages of combat in the Gaza Strip. This planning acknowledges the risk that the current ceasefire—supported by the United States, Egypt, and Qatar—could falter.

While the ceasefire is currently holding, IDF assessments include scenarios where it might collapse, necessitating a rapid resumption of military actions to address renewed threats from Hamas.

Jerusalem Post contributed to this article.