IDF: Hamas may modify terror if it wins Palestinian elections

[Behind the Aegis]

Hamas is expected to tone down its terror activity if it wins the elections for the Palestinian parliament scheduled for the end of January, a senior IDF officer said Monday.

Udi Dekel, director of the IDF's Strategic Planning Division, said if Hamas sets up the next Palestinian government, it is likely to act more moderately toward Israel.

Dekel did not rule out a scenario in which the organization would continue its suicide attacks on a relatively low profile, by giving instructions and means to smaller groups.

Intelligence sources said this is what Hamas is doing at present. Although it is officially committed to the truce in the territories, Hamas is operating the Popular Resistance Committees in Gaza for launching Qassam rockets.

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