Wed 19 February 2020:
Hamas launched on Tuesday test missiles from the Gaza Strip towards the sea, revealed Israeli media. This wasn’t the first time the movement carries out such tests.
Israel accuses Hamas of developing its missile capabilities through tests, raising concerns among settlers who reside near the Gaza border.
Israeli media had previously reported on the army’s concern that Hamas and the ‘Islamic Jihad’ may target gas platforms near Ashkelon in any future confrontation.
The accusations were made at a time when Hamas and Israel have been trading threats over the situation in Gaza.
Hamas politburo member Khalil al-Hayya said the movement has informed Israel through mediators that it can either lift the siege or face open confrontation.
Israeli incumbent Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke Tuesday with Israel’s Army Radio, saying that if a quiet agreement would be reached in Gaza, returning the remains of Israeli soldiers would be “an inseparable part of it.”
He said he would not subject any decision on Gaza to “political timetables,” with the March 2 election less than two weeks away, adding that he would “choose the right time to take action.”
Netanyahu’s statements followed those of Defense Minister Naftali Bennett, who said Tel Aviv is preparing “a painful spring for Hamas”. Bennett explained that Israel is operating on “two parallel paths” with respect to Gaza, whereby “your actions determine your outcome.”
“If you behave nicely it will be good for Gaza residents, if you behave badly it will be bad for Gaza residents. [This is the policy] we are implementing in the meantime.”
Hamas remained defiant, saying these threats do not intimidate it and warning Israel against any foolish actions in Gaza.
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