Islamic State Rings Found in Gaza

A shipment of rings bearing designs used by Islamic State on their way to Yehudah and Shomron were intercepted and seized by Israeli customs authorities, reported The Times of Israel on Tuesday.

The rings, which are classified as “banned propaganda,” are now being produced locally in the Gaza Strip.

It isn’t the first time such rings have made news here. A shipment from Turkey was confiscated by Israeli customs en route to Yehudah and Shomron last May.

Although it is an old symbol, the “Seal of Muhammad” in recent times has become famous due to its use on Islamic State flags and those of IS affiliates.

Gaza-based jewelry manufacturer Jihad Hamami is reportedly the local source.

Hamami says that his new ring-making business was legitimate, and possesses the necessary licenses and authorization from the economy ministry in Gaza.

In recent months, analysts have warned of inroads being made by Islamic State ideology and Islamists in the Gaza Strip.

An Israeli media outlet reported earlier this month that Hamas hosted Shadi al-Menei, the head of IS’s Sinai affiliate. Hamas “formally opposes” Islamic State,” the report noted, “but in practice they are cooperating.”