Hamas avoids retaliation after IDF kills commanders

Hamas has reportedly chosen not to retaliate militarily after Israel killed its Rafah and Khan Younis brigade commanders, fearing renewed and expanded IDF combat operations. According to Channel 12, Hamas is concerned about giving the IDF a pretext to resume war and launch a ground incursion beyond the “Yellow Line.” This decision aligns with a recent survey by the Jerusalem Media and Communications Centre (JMCC), which found limited public support for armed confrontation with Israel, with only 13% of Palestinians surveyed backing such a course, and fewer than 10% in Gaza. The survey indicated a stronger preference for political means, with 55.8% favoring negotiations and 17.8% supporting a nonviolent intifada.

“The explicit decision made by the terrorist organization stems from serious concern over an Israeli response.”

IDF Southern Command head Maj. Gen. Yaniv Asor, however, stated that Hamas enjoys widespread support in Gaza and is not a “foreign entity,” having grown from within the population.