Hamas is steadily consolidating its rule in the Gaza Strip, senior defense officials warned the Israeli Cabinet on Nov. 20, surprising several ministers who had not been aware of the extent of the terror group’s rehabilitation in such a short time.

According to the assessment, 13 of Gaza’s 25 municipalities have returned to full activity—effectively meaning they are again being run by Hamas—Israel’s Channel 13 reported on Tuesday.

Hamas police officers are once again deployed at checkpoints, and the organization is repairing key infrastructure. Israeli security officials emphasized that Hamas has reestablished its presence in the minds of the Gazan public.

Roughly 10 days ago, Channel 13 reported that Hamas had resumed operating checkpoints and collecting taxes from truck drivers.

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