According to the publication, Hamas is rebuilding its military capabilities, including repairing damaged tunnels. The group has also received new financial resources and resumed payments to its fighters.
Under the terms of the ceasefire, Hamas was supposed to surrender its weapons; however, as WSJ points out, the organization is only willing to give up part of its heavy weaponry, refusing to part with small arms. Israel estimates that Hamas possesses about 60,000 units of small arms and has a force of 20,000 militants. One Israeli official emphasized that if Hamas does not agree to voluntary disarmament, Israel will be forced to resort to forceful methods.
The ceasefire reached in October ended nearly two years of intense conflict, which led to the destruction of a significant portion of the Gaza Strip. Currently, the enclave is effectively divided: Israel controls just over 50% of the territory, while the rest is under Hamas's control. As WSJ highlights, the resumption of war could seriously affect around two million Palestinians, most of whom have been forced to leave their homes.
The publication also notes that Hamas's position on disarmament may change after the election of a new leader for the organization outside of Gaza. Among the potential candidates mentioned are Khalil al-Hayya, who opposes disarmament, and Khaled Mashal, who is considered more open to dialogue with Israel.
Additionally, WSJ reminds that last November, The New York Times reported on the Trump administration's plans for the accelerated construction of residential complexes for Palestinians in areas controlled by Israel, as a result of the destruction caused by the war in the Gaza Strip.
