Israeli Military Says Tel-Aviv Now In Range Of New Hamas Missiles

November 3, 2009 11:07 a.m. EST

Tel Aviv, Israel (AHN) - Militants operating in the Gaza Strip have increased the range of their missile arsenal so they can now strike at Tel Aviv. According to the head of Israel's military intelligence Major-General Amos Yadlin, Hamas recently test-fired a missile with a range of 37 miles.

Yadlin reported to the Israeli parliament's Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee on Tuesday during a recent session. A Hamas spokesman has reportedly refused to confirm or deny the comments.

Yadlin during his address did not identify whether the missile, which was fired into the Mediterranean Sea, had been locally-manufactured, or smuggled into the Strip.

Israel's latest military operation against Hamas in Gaza ended in January. Military officials say the farthest a rocket could strike into Israel was 24 miles, making Israeli southern cities such as Ashdod and Beersheba to be likely targets of attack, according to reports.

However, since January's three-week operation ended Hamas has replenished its arsenal of military equipment and explosives. Now it appears they have spent some time and money upgrading their rocket capability to go longer distances. Yadlin also said during his address that Hamas is receiving support from Iran, which is using the Islamic movement to increase its influence in the region. The military leader also accused Syria of being the main weapons supplier for Hamas.