What it is about

In the ongoing conflict, multiple terror groups in Gaza, alongside Hamas, are increasingly carrying out daily attacks on IDF forces. These terrorist organizations aim to assert their influence during and after the current Gaza war.

Why it matters

This intensifying competition among terrorist groups complicates Israel’s security landscape. While Hamas maintains the foremost position, other groups such as Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP), are escalating their operations. This rising multiplicity of threats requires the IDF to adapt strategies to counter multiple fronts simultaneously, enhancing the burden on Israel’s defense infrastructure.

Key Details

Hamas, the dominant force in Gaza, continues its aggressive tactics against the IDF. Notably, Hamas’ attacks using Yassin 105 shells and mortars exemplify their ongoing offensive efforts. However, the Al-Mayadeen report on June 18th highlights six other terrorist groups that also perpetrated assaults on Israeli forces.

Other Active Groups:

• Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ):Claimed drone attacks on IDF near Kerem Shalom and assaults in Rafah.
• Mujahideen Brigades:Fired rockets towards Reim in Israel, evidenced by propaganda footage.
• Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigades:Targeted the Netzarim corridor with an attack.
• Martyr Omar Al-Qasim unit:Conducted an RPG attack on an IDF armored personnel carrier.
• Martyr Abu Ali Mustafa Brigades:Implemented a joint mortar attack in Al-Zaytun, cooperating with the DFPL.

The Bigger Picture

These groups around Gaza are not only active within the region but also seek to bolster their presence in the West Bank post-war. Their growing involvement is filling the operational gaps due to substantial losses suffered by Hamas from Israeli military actions. Despite not matching Hamas’ capabilities, their employment of AK-47s, RPGs, and small munitions poses a persisting threat, warranting vigilant Israeli countermeasures.

Looking Ahead

As the conflict continues, these terror groups are leveraging their newfound opportunities to gain a stronger foothold, making clear that Israel’s defensive operations must remain robust and adaptive to quash this enlarging spectrum of threats.

This story was first published on jpost.com.