Israel has sharply increased the number of targeted strikes against Hamas operatives across the Gaza Strip in recent weeks, as the IDF and Shin Bet seek to weaken the terrorist organization’s remaining command structure.
Many of the operations have been carried out under the direction of Southern Command chief Maj. Gen. Yaniv Asor, together with Military Intelligence and the Shin Bet. The strikes are based on new intelligence breakthroughs that have allowed Israeli forces to identify Hamas operatives’ routines, hiding places and movements. A significant number of targets have reportedly been attacked while traveling in vehicles after emerging from concealed locations.
The campaign is placing growing pressure on senior Hamas officials and the organization’s internal security apparatus. Hamas security units are reportedly working around the clock to identify suspected collaborators with Israel and have responded with violence against those accused of assisting Israeli intelligence.
A senior Israeli security official said Hamas is currently reluctant to launch a major response against the IDF, fearing that such an attack could trigger a broader Israeli operation, including a renewed ground advance into Hamas-controlled territory.
Israel is nevertheless taking a diplomatic risk by continuing the strikes. Security officials believe the United States could intervene and demand a ceasefire as Washington attempts to advance President Donald Trump’s regional peace initiative.
For now, however, Southern Command appears determined to use the available intelligence window to eliminate as many Hamas commanders and operatives as possible before political pressure restricts Israel’s freedom of action.
