JERUSALEM – Israel’s acting prime minister, Ehud Olmert, met with top military and political officials yesterday to discuss the growing likelihood that the terrorist group Hamas could dominate this week’s Palestinian elections.

The ascendance of Hamas has alarmed Israel, which appears to have been caught off guard by the group’s surging popularity before Wednesday’s vote. Hamas has killed hundreds of Israelis in suicide bombings and remains committed to Israel’s destruction.

“What Israel has to do is the big question,” a Cabinet minister, Tzachi Hanegbi, said before yesterday’s meeting. “We have to think hard and explore all the options.”

America and the European Union also have been scrambling to figure out how to deal with Hamas. American officials confirmed yesterday they have been directing money to promote democratic parties in the election but denied the move was aimed against Hamas.

Hamas, best known for its suicide attacks, has won over the Palestinian Arab public in its first run for the legislature by focusing on domestic concerns, halting corruption, and restoring law and order to the chaotic West Bank and Gaza Strip.

In contrast, the ruling Fatah Party has been unable to shed its corrupt image or overcome infighting. Recent opinion polls show the two movements running even.

While some security officials privately support a dialogue with Hamas, top leaders, including military chief Lieutenant General Dan Halutz and Defense Minister Shaul Mofaz, say the group must disarm and revoke its charter calling for Israel’s elimination.