WSJ: Hamas regroups as ceasefire deadline nears

Hamas is reorganising its military forces in Gaza in preparation for a possible resumption of hostilities with Israel, as international mediators attempt to extend the ceasefire beyond this weekend.

According to Arab officials with ties to Hamas, the group has appointed new commanders, repaired sections of its tunnel network, and distributed instructional leaflets to newly recruited fighters, Caliber.Az reports citing The Wall Street Journal. 

It has also been repurposing unexploded ordnance into improvised explosive devices and scanning properties for Israeli surveillance equipment.

Israel is aware of Hamas’s regrouping efforts but insists the militant group has been severely weakened. Israeli forces have killed thousands of Hamas fighters, including senior commanders, and destroyed much of its tunnel network and rocket capabilities.

The ceasefire negotiations remain stalled. Israel demands Hamas disarm and relinquish its role in governing Gaza, while Hamas refuses to surrender its weapons or influence. The United States, acting as a key mediator, has pushed for an extension of the truce to allow further negotiations, but significant divisions persist.

Internal rifts within Hamas have also emerged. Some leaders, particularly those based in Doha, appear more pragmatic, while factions in Gaza maintain a hard-line stance. The divide has raised speculation that the group’s external leadership may distance itself from its Gaza-based commanders, who orchestrated the October 7, 2023 attacks.

During the ceasefire, Hamas has used hostage exchanges to reinforce its image among Palestinians. Armed militants have paraded in Gaza, showcasing captured Israeli and US-made weapons. Meanwhile, Hamas’s police force has taken charge of humanitarian aid distribution, a move Israel claims is aimed at bolstering support and recruitment.

Israeli military officials have warned they are prepared to resume operations if Hamas does not disarm. “The likelihood of renewed fighting is very high,” said Amir Avivi, a former Israeli commander.

So far, Hamas has shown no signs of yielding.

By Aghakazim Guliyev