Hamas Military Wing Recruits Thousands During Gaza War

The Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas, has succeeded in recruiting thousands of fighters amidst the ongoing war in Gaza, despite heavy casualties. New videos released by the Qassam Brigades on their 'Akmār al-Ṭūfān' account show some of these fighters were as young as 18 to 20 years old, engaged in combat in 2024. In July 2024, former Qassam spokesperson Abu Obeida announced the recruitment of thousands, referred to as 'new recruits' or 'recruits 2024'.

The released footage depicts trainees receiving rapid instruction on light weapons and anti-tank rockets within damaged residential apartments, guided by Qassam instructors. A source from Gaza told i24NEWS that many of these recruits were previously part of Hamas's "popular army" and were called up for accelerated weapons training after hundreds of core fighters were killed. Previously, their training focused on physical combat.

According to the source, thousands of these new recruits are still alive and have been effectively utilized by Hamas in combat, participating in attacks such as planting explosives and launching rockets. Following the return of residents to northern Gaza from displacement, small booklets instructing fighters on weapons, particularly anti-tank systems, were found. Some recruits received immediate training from specialized fighters who then brought them into battles.

Hamas has suffered significant losses in northern Gaza, Khan Younis, and to a lesser extent, Rafah and the central Gaza Strip. The 'Akmār al-Ṭūfān' group has documented videos of over 1,466 fallen fighters, including prominent leaders. The group continues to publish daily videos of its deceased members.

Israel estimates that Hamas still possesses over 30,000 fighters and continues to produce weapons and rockets, maintaining parts of its infrastructure.