The Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, armed wing of the group, specified in a statement that the objective of the exercise is “to increase combat readiness and simulate different scenarios.”

The Israeli Armed Forces (IDF) conducted a surprise drill four days ago near the Gaza Strip, where more than two million Palestinians live.

The IDF has carried out in recent months similar maneuvers in the vicinity of the Gaza Strip, controlled by Hamas since 2007.

The Tel Aviv authorities have since applied a stark blockade against the territory despite criticism from the international community for the humanitarian consequences for its inhabitants. Both Hamas and the Islamic Jihad group recently warned Israel of a new escalation if the siege continues.

Khader Habib, leader of the Islamic Jihad, denounced last week the delay in the process of rebuilding the enclave, devastated last May by 11 days of intense Israeli bombing, which caused the deaths of more than 250 people and hundreds of wounded.

Faced with international pressure, the Jewish state promised after the offensive to allow the entry of basic products, construction materials and money for rebuilding, but to date has limited the process with various justifications.

According to the World Bank, the attacks caused $570 million in damage.

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