IDF gears for possible ceasefire violations

The IDF has began formulating response scenarios to any ceasefire violations on Hamas' part, a senior security source told Ynet Monday night.

The military has also begun looking into several of the operational errors and friendly fire incidents which took place during Operation Cast Lead, as well as its heroic tales. "We will see quite a few commendations," said the source.

The defense establishment believes that Hamas will concentrate its resources on rebuilding its infrastructure, as well as in avenues pertaining to the Palestinian population. The organization is also expected to halt its terror attacks against Israel in the next few weeks, possibly months.

"Hamas operatives will probably stay away from the security fence in the near future," said a military source. "As for rocket fire – they understand the implications and if they try it, we will respond accordingly."

Any such attack, added the source, would be met with  strikes on various targets in the Strip, not necessarily only on the rocket cell or launching pad. The price tag for each attack will increase exponentially, added the source.

The military's assessments as to the amount of weapons Hamas still has are inconclusive, with the main question remaining its ability to restock on arms.

While Grad rockets are traditionally smuggled through the Philadelphi Route tunnels and would now be harder to get, Qassam rockets are manufactured within Gaza and would be easily obtained should Hamas be able to restore its manufacturing capabilities.

The IDF stressed that any fire towards Israel would be seen as a violation of the armistice.

Negotiations of Shalit stalled

With the fragile ceasefire muddles through its first days and with Egypt aiming to begin talks about reopening the Gaza crossings, Israel is said to bid for the renewal of the indirect negotiations for the release of kidnapped IDF soldier Gilad Shalit.

Jerusalem, however, is said to be waiting until the last troops leave Gaza, and until Hamas leaders resurface in the Strip, before taking such steps.

Is it still unclear when Prime Minister Ehud Olmert may order all troops out of Gaza. The move pends the approval of the National Security Cabinet, which awaits the IDF security assessments for the ceasefire's chances of holding.

Gilad Shalit has been in Hamas captivity for 940 days.