Fearing Hamas will try to influence the elections: IDF to raise alert in Gaza

The IDF will increase its alert level in the Gaza Strip ahead of the elections, under the directive of Defense Minister Katz, due to concerns that Hamas will try to influence the electoral process. A security source said that an average of 2–3 Hamas and Islamic Jihad operatives are thwarted daily.

The IDF will increase its alert level in the Gaza Strip ahead of the elections, under the directive of Defense Minister Israel Katz, amid concerns over Hamas attempts to influence the electoral process. A security source reported that in the past two weeks, the IDF has increased pressure on Hamas and Islamic Jihad, reaching an average of 2–3 daily thwartings of field commanders and operatives, some en route to carry out missions against the IDF. Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, who visited the Gaza Strip, said the goal is to thwart any threat and enable democratic elections without external influence. The IDF is preparing for scenarios of infiltration and attacks on outposts, rocket launches, and attacks along the border fence, aiming to prevent a surprise similar to October 7. However, security officials admit that intelligence is not perfect and are taking no risks in any area.