Leo Ibarra
Analysis by the BBC has revealed that Hamas held multiple training exercises in Gaza, ahead of their deadly attack on Israel on 7th October which claimed 1,200 lives.
BBC Verify and BBC Arabic have established that Hamas held military exercises over three years and posted the evidence on social media.
They practised hostage-taking, raiding compounds and breaching Israel’s defences during these exercises, the last of which was held just 25 days before the attack.
Several armed Palestinian groups joined Hamas in the assault on Israel. The groups carried out joint drills in Gaza, including at a site less than 1km from the barrier with Israel.
The Ocotober attack on Israel provoked retaliation which has led to the deaths of more than 14,000 Palestinians in Gaza, according to the authorities there.
Fiona Bruce presents BBC News at Ten reporting by Jonathan Beale.
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