Massive Arab support for Hamas and its Massacres Raises Alarm in Central Israel

Residents in the Israeli communities of Kochav Yair-Tzur Yigal and Bat Hefer, situated along Israel’s narrow waist near Kalkilya and Tulkarm in Judea and Samaria (commonly known as the “West Bank)”, have reported unsettling vibrations and noises reminiscent of tunnel digging. These reports have reignited fears of a repeat of the October 7 bloodbath, where central Israel was targeted, reflecting the potential vulnerability of Israeli population centers merely 5-10 minutes’ drive from these areas.

Recent polls indicate a significant rise in support for Hamas within Judea and Samaria, with a notable 44% of residents expressing support, a significant increase from 12% in September. This upswing is mirrored in Gaza, albeit to a lesser extent, with 42% support compared to 38% previously​​. More alarmingly, 72% of respondents across both regions believe Hamas was correct to launch the October 7 onslaught, with a staggering 82% backing from Judea and Samaria compared to 57% in Gaza​​. These figures suggest a worrying shift in sentiment that could embolden similar attacks in the future.

“The last time I heard these drilling noises was last Thursday night,” shared Matan Buchner, a resident of Bat Hefer. He challenged dismissive claims about the area’s diggability, pointing to historical precedents of tunneling in the region. His testimony and others like it underscore a community on edge, wary of the hidden threats beneath their homes.

The geographical proximity of Judea and Samaria to Israel’s densely populated areas adds a strategic dimension to the threat. “Kalkilya is a straight line from here, close by, they can dig to us from there,” expressed Baruch Ben Neria, a resident of Kochav Yair-Tzur Yigal, highlighting the palpable fear within these communities.

Despite no concrete evidence of tunnels found during various tests, the memories of similar reports eventually leading to discoveries on the Lebanon border linger, causing residents to distrust reassurances. The majority of Judea and Samaria, according to the poll, not only supported the October 7 attacks but also dismissed allegations of Hamas committing war crimes. Many adhere to the narrative of Hamas defending against perceived aggressions on Jerusalem and Palestinian prisoners​​.

Understanding the potential for a repeat of such a tragedy requires examining the proximity of Judea and Samaria to central Israel’s densely populated areas. Kalkilya and Tulkarm are not only geographically close to Israeli population centers but also sit along strategic points, making them potential launching pads for attacks. The reports of tunnel-like activities near these localities add a tangible threat to the support for Hamas of the local occupants of the Land, indicating both the capability and the local public sentiment that could facilitate such actions.

The majority of Judea and Samaria’s Muslim occupants, according to the poll, not only supported the October 7 attacks but also dismissed allegations of Hamas committing war crimes​​. The decline in support for the Palestinian Authority, coupled with the rise in support for Hamas in Judea and Samaria, underscores a significant shift in the political landscape​​. The US and Europeans still cling to the discredited notion that the PA can somehow take control of Gaza even as its control over the West Bank is weaker than ever before.

As the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) remain vigilant, the increasing support for Hamas, the geographical closeness to key Israeli locales, and the potential for underground pathways constitute a multifaceted threat that requires a comprehensive response. “The IDF is taking a serious look and listening to residents’ reports,” assured the military in a statement, reflecting the gravity with which these concerns are taken​​.