Special to WorldTribune.com

GAZA CITY — Hamas has threatened to launch another war against Israel.

Hamas’ military wing warned of a resumption of attacks on Israel unless it approved massive cargo deliveries to the Gaza Strip. Hamas said the Jewish state was blocking the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip in wake of the 50-day war in July and August 2014.

Under the ceasefire agreement, Israel committed to lift its siege on the Gaza Strip and promised to release $5.4 billion for reconstruction. Israel has insisted that Hamas and its Palestinian militia allies end rocket production and agree to cargo inspection.

“We are saying to all sides: if the siege on Gaza and the obstacles for reconstruction remain, there will be a new explosion,” Hamas military spokesman Abu Obeida said.

The statement on Nov. 13 marked a rare Hamas warning to renew war with Israel. Hamas has been under increasing pressure from its rank-and-file, including 16,000 security personnel who have been waiting for months for their salaries.

Over the last week, Hamas has also been accused of renewing hostilities against the opposition Fatah movement. At least eight bombs targeted the homes of Fatah leaders in the Gaza Strip. Hamas, accused by Palestinian Authority Chairman Mahmoud Abbas, has denied responsibility.

Palestinian sources said the bombings as well as other unclaimed operations were the work of Hamas. They said Hamas continued to intimidate dissidents in attacks attributed to Islamic State of Iraq and Levant.

For its part, Hamas said the PA was blocking funds to and attempting to disarm militias in the Gaza Strip. The de facto leader of Hamas’ political wing said Abbas has stymied an agreement to hold elections in fear of an Islamist victory.

“Abbas is afraid to hold them because he fears the results,” Mahmoud Zahar, a former Hamas foreign minister, said on Nov. 15.

During the Hamas rally in Gaza City, speakers urged Palestinian unity for what could mark another round of fighting with Israel. The rally was surrounded by scores of Hamas gunmen.

“We hold the enemy fully responsible for an explosion if the reconstruction does not begin,” Abu Obeida said. “The fight is not over.”

  Hamas issues rare threat of new war as Israel withholds reconstruction aid, WorldTribune.com