Senior Israeli military officials have presented American counterparts with intelligence indicating that Hamas is actively rebuilding its military capabilities in Gaza and has no intention of surrendering its weapons as part of any future arrangement. Haaretz reports.

According to the Israeli assessment, Hamas has restored portions of its underground tunnel network and accumulated weapons in areas of the Strip that remain under its control.

Military officials reportedly estimate that Hamas currently maintains between 30,000 and 40,000 operatives, a figure approaching the size of its forces before the October 7 massacre.

The intelligence assessment further indicates that Hamas has succeeded in reestablishing governing authority throughout areas under its control and does not currently face a serious internal challenge to that authority.

Israeli security officials believe Hamas will refuse to cooperate with any international framework requiring disarmament and that diplomatic pressure alone will not compel the terror organization to surrender its weapons.

The assessment comes as American-led discussions over Gaza’s future remain stalled, with key disputes centering on security control, disarmament and Israel’s military presence in the territory.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)