Hamas accuses Israel of using military claims to justify violations in Gaza

Hamas on Sunday rejected Israeli allegations that it is rebuilding its military capabilities in Gaza, accusing Israel of using such claims to justify what it described as continued military actions and violations of the ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip.

In a statement, Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem said that Hamas and other Palestinian factions in Gaza remain committed to the ceasefire agreement, calling on mediators and guarantor states to ensure Israel complies with its obligations under the deal.

His remarks came after Israel's state-owned Kan TV News reported that Israeli military officials assessed that Hamas is preparing for a possible new round of fighting by recruiting new fighters, rebuilding underground infrastructure, including tunnels and military facilities, and producing hundreds of explosive devices and rockets each month.

The report added that some Israeli military officials advocate resuming operations in Gaza, viewing Hamas's rebuilding efforts as an increasing security challenge.

A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas took effect on Oct 10, 2025. Its first phase included an exchange of prisoners and detainees between the two sides, the entry of humanitarian aid into the enclave, and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from some areas of Gaza.

The United States announced in mid-January the start of the second phase, which focuses on Gaza's demilitarization, reconstruction, transitional governance, and full Israeli withdrawal.

China and Russia on Monday launched the "Joint Sea-2026" exercise at a military port in Qingdao in east China's Shandong Province.

A joint command has been established, comprising task forces from the navies of the two countries.

The exercise will be carried out in three phases: force assembly, harbor-based planning, and at-sea operations. The force assembly was completed on Sunday.

Following the opening ceremony, the two navies conducted exercises in command and tactical coordination. The joint command held in-depth discussions on the key drill subjects for the at-sea phase.

For the next step, the participating warships will proceed to the sea near Qingdao to conduct drills in areas such as joint reconnaissance, air and missile defense, as well as training in the actual use of weapons.