"These are exercises that include RPG [rocket-propelled grenade] fire
and meant to prepare us for the next round [with Israel]," the commander
said.
Hamas sources said the Izzedin Kassam military wing has sharply
increased the number of
cadets in training courses. They said a military training course that in
early 2008 contained 15 cadets was now attended by 60 fighters.
In July, the sources said, Hamas conducted two major exercises. One of
the exercises was marred by an explosion in which six Hamas fighters were
injured outside Khan Yunis.
Over the last week, Hamas has been engaged in an Izzedin Kassam-led
civil defense exercise of 750 soldiers in the northern Gaza Strip.
Palestinian sources said the uniformed fighters range in age from 15 to 65.
The Islamic regime and its militia allies have also been using the
ceasefire to enhance their weapons arsenal. The sources said the cost of
missile production, reported at $500 per unit, has risen because of
increases in the price of metal and explosives.
Israel has not sought to stop Palestinian military training in the Gaza
Strip. Hamas sources said that despite Israeli unmanned aerial vehicles
operations, Palestinian fighters were no longer restricted in reconnaissance
and training.
"We feel safe," a senior Hamas operative said. "We are not targeted
either from the sea or on the ground. There is complete freedom of
movement."
