Hamas Rearms as Israel Intensifies Gaza Strikes

Israel has intensified its attacks in the Gaza Strip in recent weeks, saying Hamas is exploiting the ceasefire to rebuild its forces, restore weapons production and tighten its control over parts of the enclave.

At least 120 Palestinians, including women and children, have been killed in Gaza since 8 April, according to health ministry figures. The ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants.

The Armed Conflict Location & Event Data (ACLED) project said Israel carried out 35% more attacks in April than in March. It said recent strikes had hit Hamas fighters, other armed groups, police officers, police stations and security checkpoints.

Israeli officials say Hamas is regaining strength in territory still under its control. The military is preparing for possible scenarios involving a wider resumption of fighting if the ceasefire breaks down.

Although last year’s ceasefire halted the full-scale war, negotiations on a lasting settlement have stalled. Israel continues to control more than half of Gaza, while much of the population lives in makeshift conditions in coastal areas.

Palestinians say that, despite the official ceasefire, the war is not really over. The renewed fighting also complicates US President Donald Trump’s broader plan to stabilize the region and rebuild Gaza after years of conflict.

(reuters, max)