Hamas Retains Significant Strength Nearly Three Years After October 7

Nearly three years after the October 7th attacks, Hamas, while severely degraded, remains far from eliminated. Despite ongoing efforts to neutralize its operatives, the organization continues to maintain infrastructure and personnel. Recent funeral processions in Gaza, attended by dozens of openly armed individuals, many likely Hamas members, illustrate the group's persistent presence.

Hamas's remaining strength is estimated at 25,000 to 30,000 militants, including new recruits. The group is actively maintaining and reinforcing its tunnel network, particularly in areas beyond the Gaza border, and operates rocket production facilities in civilian areas and zones not yet subjected to extensive IDF operations. While rockets are not currently being fired due to fear of Israeli retaliation, the production capability persists.

Furthermore, Hamas is working to preserve its weapons stockpiles, recently distributing arms to supporters who are not necessarily official members. This is seen as an effort to ensure weapons remain available to its loyalists even if future scenarios require the surrender of official armaments. Smuggling of weapons from Egypt via drones also continues, indicating ongoing attempts by the organization to rebuild its capabilities.

The overall picture is of an organization that has suffered heavy losses but still commands tens of thousands of fighters, possesses underground infrastructure, maintains local production capabilities, and utilizes illicit channels for rearmament. Alongside the ongoing military and intelligence operations by the IDF and Shin Bet, a diplomatic initiative is deemed necessary to complement military pressure and shape the future reality in the Gaza Strip.