Hamas Instructs Leaders to Cease Cell Phone Use Amid Concerns of Ceasefire Ending
In light of escalating concerns over the stability of the current ceasefire with Israel, Hamas has directed its senior political and military officials to discontinue the use of cell phones. This measure aims to prevent potential tracking and targeting by Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), as reported by sources within Hamas to the London-based Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper.
The directive comes after a period during which many Hamas leaders had resumed regular cell phone usage, following the initiation of the ceasefire last month. However, apprehensions have risen that the fragile truce may collapse, possibly leading to renewed Israeli military actions. Consequently, several high-ranking Hamas officials have already abandoned their mobile devices to mitigate the risk of being located and targeted by the IDF.
The ceasefire agreement, established last month, concluded approximately 15 months of conflict that began with a significant attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023. The terms of the ceasefire include the release of hostages by Hamas, the liberation of thousands of Palestinian terrorists and security prisoners by Israel—including many serving life sentences—and a cessation of hostilities in the Gaza Strip. The agreement also outlines subsequent negotiations aimed at achieving a sustainable peace and the withdrawal of IDF forces from the Gaza enclave.
Recent tensions are due to Hamas saying they will delay the release of hostages intended for Shabbas, a violation of the terms of the ceasefire. Backed by President Trump, Israel has announced that if the hostages are not released as agreed upon, the war will restart.
The IDF has already announced a significant reinforcement of its forces within the Southern Command. This includes the mobilization of reservists and the approval of strategic plans for potential operations in the Gaza Strip, should the ceasefire agreement deteriorate.
In addition to the cessation of cell phone use, Hamas has reportedly discovered surveillance equipment concealed within stones and building debris in Gaza. These devices, including cameras and listening apparatus, are believed to have been planted to monitor senior officials or hostages. In response, Hamas has intensified its efforts to locate and dismantle such equipment, aiming to extract any pertinent information.
The organization is also enhancing its surveillance activities to monitor IDF movements, preparing to counter any potential incursions or special operations by Israeli forces.