Hamas
The economic chokehold that the Palestinian Authority has tried to place on Gaza, as part of its own internal war with Hamas, has contributed to tensions with Israel in the past year.
The Iron Dome missile-defense system was activated to stop the rocket from exploding in Israel.
The Shin Bet released a report highlighting how a secret Hamas unit in the Gaza Strip used Al-Aqsa TV to recruit Palestinians in the West Bank and eastern Jerusalem to carry out terrorist activity against Israel.
Some 8,000 protesters resumed the weekly demonstrations, or “March of Return,” against Israel along the border fence along the Gaza Strip, throwing grenades and explosive devices towards Israeli troops.
“It is Hamas which fires missiles at Israeli citizens, throws explosive devices and carries out terrorist activity during the violent demonstrations along the fence,” said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. “Israel will not allow Hamas to attack Israel’s sovereignty and its people, and will maintain the right of self-defense.”
Some of the targets hit by Israel are believed to be tied to Hamas’s Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, the terrorist organization’s armed division.
Quds Force Commander Qassem Soleimani said in a speech that aired on IRINN TV (Iran) on Feb. 22 that the spreading of the culture of jihad and martyrdom has “unique and positive implications on moral, religious and national aspects.”
The Shin Bet has prepared for various scenarios, including attacks on staff, and the sabotage of machinery and equipment.
The Palestinian press fiercely attacks Hamas, saying it is “a tumor that must be removed; no different from ISIS and Al-Qaeda; it cares nothing for our children’s lives.”
In the next full-scale conflict against terrorist entities, it might be difficult for either side to declare an absolute victory. Nevertheless, it will be vital for each side to secure the appearance of one.
So far, Israel’s objectives in armed conflicts with Hamas have been limited so as to avoid the need to reoccupy Gaza or to send it down the “Somalia model” path of chaos.
Jerusalem Institute of Justice to submit 33 accounts of Hamas war crimes in attempt to confront anti-Israel bias • JIJ: Court has the “rare opportunity to send the world a message that torture” and the use of human shields “are unacceptable.”
