As the war in Gaza enters its 15th month, Israel is expressing growing concern over attempts by Hamas and Islamic Jihad to carry out attacks against Israeli and Jewish targets abroad. A senior Israeli official revealed Tuesday that Hamas, frustrated by the situation in Gaza, is now seeking “successes” on other fronts.
The threat is also evident in Judea and Samaria, where Iran finances and directs terrorist activities, transporting significant quantities of weapons through Jordan. The establishment of members of Hamas and Islamic Jihad in Syria is of particular concern to the Israeli authorities. “Approximately 2,000 members of Hamas and 7,000 members of Islamic Jihad are taking advantage of the chaos created following the rebel coup and the fall of the Assad regime,” the official said.
In January 2024, the Mossad and the Shin Bet revealed the identities of several Hamas operators in different European countries, following an arrest operation carried out a month earlier. On December 14, 2023, Danish and German authorities announced the arrest of suspects across Europe, accused of preparing attacks against Israeli, Jewish and Western targets.
A joint statement from the Prime Minister’s Office, Mossad and Shin Bet revealed that Hamas had acquired drones and activated criminal organizations in Europe to target Israelis and Jews. “A comprehensive picture of Hamas’ terrorist activity has been uncovered, including details of infrastructure, operators and targets,” the statement said.
Concerning Syria, Israel maintains an indirect channel of communication with the new leaders, while remaining skeptical of the “moderate messages” of rebel leader Al-Julani. “Don’t be fooled. After stabilizing Syria, they will turn to Israel,” warns the senior official.
Swiss
