Dozens of drones entered Gaza Strip over recent months, fears Hamas could use in attack - report

Concerns are mounting within the defense establishment as at least 28 drones have reportedly entered the Gaza Strip in recent months, with fears that these could fall into the hands of Hamas. This comes despite significant efforts by the IDF to thwart smuggling attempts.

Army Radio reported that the military estimates most successful drone incursions ultimately reach Hamas. These drones are considered a highly valuable asset to the terror group, even beyond the military value of any goods they might smuggle. Hamas reportedly uses drones for attacks on troops and for reconnaissance, and is learning from Hezbollah's increasingly effective deployment of explosive drones in Lebanon, which have resulted in Israeli casualties.

The IDF and Israel Police have made extensive efforts to counter smuggling attempts into Gaza. Since January, the IDF has thwarted 89 drone smuggling attempts. In one instance on June 17, Israel Police and the Defense Ministry confiscated property linked to drone smuggling. Defense Minister Israel Katz has imposed economic sanctions on those involved, stating they are part of the terrorist network.

According to the report, there have been at least 117 smuggling attempts via drone in the first six months of the year. While the IDF claims intercepted attempts contained only drugs, the report notes that dozens were not intercepted, and not all detected drones may be known to the military in real time.

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Anyone who smuggles weapons, equipment, or funds to terrorist organizations in Gaza is part of the terrorist network itself and will pay a heavy price.