|
Trending Topics
|
Source: http://jcpa.org/the-exposure-of-israels-intelligence-collection-in-gaza-actually-undermines-hamas/
Exposure of Israel's Intelligence Collection in Gaza Undermines Hamas
(Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs) Yoni Ben Menachem - The exposure of special operations by IDF forces near Khan Yunis on Nov. 11 is creating a feeling among Gaza residents that Israeli intelligence has been working inside Gaza right under Hamas' nose for a long time. Hamas on Dec. 3 announced the sentencing of 14 alleged collaborators with Israel who were apprehended by the Hamas intelligence service, including 6 sentenced to death. Hamas Interior Ministry revelations about the collaborators indicate what Israeli intelligence is interested in learning about Gaza, including tunnels; storage areas and launch sites of rockets; Hamas military operatives and their commanders, their places of residence, the vehicles they drive, their cell phone numbers, and their regular activities; and the operations and bases of Hamas naval commandos. The release of detailed information by Hamas was meant to show Gaza residents that it has full control over the security situation. However, the specific information attests to the efficiency of Israeli intelligence in Gaza and that it has managed to recruit collaborators who provide it with important information. We should remember that the IDF force was exposed by chance and not through the counter-intelligence activities of Hamas. The writer, a veteran Arab affairs and diplomatic commentator for Israel Radio and Television, is a senior Middle East analyst for the Jerusalem Center.