Hamas Rebuilding Military Strength in Gaza Despite Heavy Losses

Despite significant operational setbacks during the recent conflict, Hamas is actively working to restore its military capabilities in the Gaza Strip, according to a report by Channel 12 journalist Ohad Hemo. The organization's armed personnel are estimated to be between 25,000 and 30,000 fighters.

Hamas is reportedly maintaining and reinforcing its tunnel network, particularly in areas beyond the "red line," and is operating rocket production facilities in areas not yet reached by Israeli ground forces, as well as within civilian population centers. While rocket launches have ceased due to fear of Israeli retaliation, the capacity for production remains active.

A concerning development highlighted in the report is Hamas's effort to create hidden weapon reserves. The group has begun distributing arms to Gazan civilians who are identified as supporters but are not official members of its military wing. Security officials believe this is a calculated move to ensure weapons remain available to supporters, even if Hamas is eventually compelled to surrender its official armaments.

Furthermore, Hamas continues to smuggle weapons via drones from Egyptian territory, indicating ongoing efforts to replenish its capabilities. Although the exact volume of smuggled equipment is unknown, the persistence of this activity underscores the organization's continuous attempts to rebuild.

The overall picture is of an organization that has suffered severe damage but retains tens of thousands of fighters, underground infrastructure, local production capabilities, and active smuggling channels. The report suggests that alongside ongoing military and intelligence operations, a political initiative is needed to reshape the reality in Gaza.