Israel started tightening the noose in May with an effort to flush out militants and destroy the extensive tunnel system where Hamas has hidden fighters, hostages and weapons throughout the conflict. The strategy was to cut off sections of the underground web from one another, said Israeli military officials.

A cease-fire after two years of war with Israel has allowed Hamas to tighten its grip on power again. “It’s still standing,” one Israeli official said.

Hamas has replenished its fighting force to some 20,000 terrorists, with the group benefiting as its members levy taxes on imported goods and police the streets of Gaza — moves that threaten the

Bill Maher and Ana Kasparian engaged in a heated debate about Israel's military actions and Palestinian casualties on the latest "Club Random" podcast episode.

Abu Shabab's death would be a boost to Hamas, which branded him a collaborator and ordered its fighters to kill or capture him.

The ceasefire in Gaza is broadly holding, with Israeli forces inside the strip having pulled back to the so-called "yellow line." Israel Defense Forces chief Eyal Zamir said the position constitutes "a new border line" with Gaza.

We are open to have a comprehensive approach in order to avoid further escalation,” said Bassem Naim, a member of Hamas’ decision-making political bureau.

Gaza militia leader Yasser Abu Shabab died from injuries sustained in a clan confrontation while working to distribute aid and fight Hamas in Rafah.