Israeli security officials have identified preparations in Gaza for a possible Hamas offensive, according to multiple reports.
Intelligence assessments indicate that Hamas may be planning to launch an attack against Israel in an attempt to renew the war. Intelligence monitoring shows Hamas removing weapons from underground caches and concentrating fighters in preparation for a possible strike.
Security sources said Hamas has concluded that fighting is likely to resume in any case, apparently following its rejection of Israeli and international conditions requiring the organization to disarm and relinquish control, and believes it is preferable for the fighting to begin on its own initiative.
According to the reports, there are elements in Gaza pushing for such an offensive, with Hamas transferring combat equipment from remaining underground caches in central Gaza City and concentrating fighters in the remaining hospitals. Iran may also be pressuring for such an operation, in a possible attempt to achieve some image of victory ahead of Israel's elections.
