Hamas Says Israel Uses Military Claims as Pretext for Violations in Gaza

Hamas on Sunday refuted Israeli accusations that it has been rebuilding its military capabilities in the Gaza Strip. Hamas stated that Israel is using these claims as a pretext to justify the continuation of its military aggression and violations of the ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip. In a statement, Hamas spokesman Hazem Qassem said that Hamas and other Palestinian factions in Gaza remain committed to the ceasefire agreement. He also called on mediators and guarantor countries to ensure Israel adheres to its obligations under the agreement. Qassem’s statement came after the Israeli broadcaster Kan TV News reported that Israeli military officials assess Hamas is preparing for a possible new round of fighting by recruiting new fighters, rebuilding underground infrastructure, including tunnels and military facilities, and producing hundreds of explosive devices and rockets each month. The Kan TV News report added that some Israeli military officials advocate resuming operations in Gaza, viewing Hamas’s rebuilding efforts as an increasing security challenge. The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas came into effect on 10 October 2025. Its first phase included an exchange of prisoners and detainees between the two sides, the entry of humanitarian aid into the enclave, and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from some areas of Gaza. The United States in mid-January announced the start of the second phase, which focuses on the demilitarisation of Gaza, reconstruction, transitional governance, and the full withdrawal of Israeli forces.