Jerusalem: The Israeli army is reportedly in 'its worst position' to confront Hamas, as the Palestinian group continues to strengthen its military capabilities amid an ongoing Gaza ceasefire, according to an Israeli military source.
According to Anadolu Agency, the public broadcaster KAN quoted the military source expressing concern over the Israeli army's inactivity, stating that it has not conducted any effective combat operations for approximately two weeks. This period of inactivity has allegedly provided Hamas with the opportunity to bolster its military capabilities in preparation for potential future conflicts.
The ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement, which has been in effect since January 19, temporarily paused the intense military campaign by Israel that resulted in over 48,500 deaths, predominantly affecting women and children, and left the Gaza enclave devastated. The first phase of this ceasefire concluded in early March, yet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has resisted moving forward with negotiations for the second phase. Instead, he has sought to prolong the initial phase of the agreement.
Hamas has rejected any progress under these conditions, demanding that Israel adhere to the original terms of the ceasefire and commence negotiations for the second phase. This phase includes a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and a halt to ongoing hostilities. The military source emphasized the danger in allowing Hamas to continue arming itself. "Continuing the ceasefire without releasing the Israeli captives does not alleviate their suffering, but rather gives Hamas time to arm itself and prepare for the next battle," the source stated.
KAN reported that any significant military effort to diminish Hamas's strength would necessitate a large-scale ground invasion, potentially involving the mobilization of tens of thousands of reserve soldiers. Last November, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Prime Minister Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, citing allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.