IDF raises alert level over concerns of a possible Hamas response to Gaza strikes
Southern Command officials are also not ruling out rocket fire toward Israel as an attempt by Hamas to demonstrate its strength.
Concern is growing within the IDF Southern Command that Hamas military leaders may carry out guerrilla operations against IDF outposts or patrols along the Yellow Line in response to recent strikes and the capture of a high-ranking Hamas official. Officials are also considering the possibility of rocket fire from Hamas as a show of strength. They believe Hamas is hesitant for the US to allow IDF deep operations in Gaza, and may wait for the periods before elections in both Israel and the US to retaliate.
Ahead of the Jewish New Year next weekend, a situational assessment will be conducted to evaluate the potential for a targeted reinforcement of forces in Gaza. This could involve discreet signals to Hamas, warning that any actions against IDF troops or Israeli civilians would lead to an unusual IDF response. The defense establishment has not commented on the arrest of Hamas' chief security officer, but officials say his interrogation could reveal crucial insights into the group's plans, protected individuals, tactics, and recently appointed commanders.
The arrest took place in coordination with Israel's Shin Bet security agency and a Palestinian anti-Hamas militia. IDF and Shin Bet Special Forces entered al-Shati refugee camp in Gaza using vehicles, but Palestinian reports claim Hamas operatives spotted the force, leading to a shootout where the arrest team was extracted both by ground and air.
Despite this, Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed the arrest, emphasizing that Hamas terrorists will be eliminated and their terror infrastructure destroyed. The operation was carried out in response to an uptick in explosive kite launches from Gaza towards Israeli territory, with the defense establishment warning that any retaliation from Israel would be severe.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
