Hamas terrorists still active
Photo: Reuters
'Hamas exploiting calm'
Terror group using lull in fighting to boost strength, Army Chief Yaalon says; hints he may retire early
TEL AVIV - Hamas terrorists are using the current lull in military activity to boost their strength, IDF Chief-of-Staff Moshe Yaalon says.
Despite the significant decline in threats, terror organizations are still attempting to carry out attacks, Yaalon said during a visit at an army base Sunday.
Israel sees a 180-degree change in the Palestinian leadership's conduct, he said, but added the problem of anarchy in the Palestinian Authority cannot be expected to be resolved immediately.
'Process very sensitive and fragile'
"It's a sea change that is taking place slowly…and we are assisting it by adopting various measures," he said.
"The process is very sensitive and fragile, and faces a Hamas and Hizbullah veto," Yaalon said. "We also see an internal Palestinian debate."
The Hamas still maintains the same frame of mind, but Palestinian leaders reject the Hamas way and believe a two-state solution should be reached, he said.
'Pullout a complex task'
Yaalon also hinted he may retire earlier than planned if the move helps implement the disengagement plan.
"I will determine my position in accordance with Israel's security interests," he said. "My considerations all along the way were about Israel's security, and that's how it will be in this matter, too."
Addressing the upcoming Gaza pullout, Yaalon said he does not know when the withdrawal would take place.
"I've been preparing the army in earnest for this move for several months now," he said. "It's a complex task we'll have to carry out with wisdom, determination, and sensitivity."
