Senior IDF intelligence and Southern Command officers warned Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir last week that Hamas is rearming — producing hundreds of explosives and anti-tank munitions monthly, recruiting fighters aged 18–22, resuming Nukhba training, and attempting to smuggle drones and communication gear from Sinai. The officers assessed that Hamas feels unchallenged and is unwilling to give up control of Gaza, according to a report by Itay Blumenthal (N12).
The assessment, relayed last week to Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir by senior intelligence and Southern Command officers, paints a stark picture of Hamas's recovery despite months of relative quiet. According to the report by Itay Blumenthal (N12), the warnings detail a methodical rebuilding effort: hundreds of improvised explosive devices and anti-tank munitions produced per month; active recruitment of operatives aged 18–22; renewed training for the elite Nukhba force; attempts to smuggle drones and communications equipment from Sinai; and reconstruction of underground infrastructure across the Strip.
The officers reportedly told Zamir: "Hamas is strong on the ground, no one threatens it, and the organization is not willing to give up control of Gaza."
On the diplomatic track, the report says the IDF has conveyed to the Americans a position favoring a return to active combat, but Washington opposes the idea and prefers to maintain the current ceasefire framework while pursuing President Trump's Gaza vision and the peace council. This is the most explicit account to date of the widening gap between Israeli military assessments and U.S. policy preferences on Gaza.
The intelligence warning — single-sourced at this stage — aligns with prior unconfirmed assessments reported by The Zioneer in recent weeks suggesting Hamas was quietly rebuilding its ranks and launch capabilities. The report has not been officially confirmed by the IDF or the Defense Ministry.
3 developments
- DevelopingHamas rebuilding launch sites in Gaza, preparing for next round, source says
- DevelopingIDF prepares for Hamas 'riots' to begin Friday
- ConfirmedIDF prepares for incoming fire after Beirut strike, says Chief of Staff at the helm
- StrongSecurity establishment divided: Southern Command chief supports Gaza renewal, top brass hesitates
Source and signal
- Internal intake