Gaza Three Years After October 7: Devastation, Shifting Public Opinion, and Hamas's Grip
Translated & summarized from Ynet by baba
Three years after the October 7 attacks, Gaza faces widespread destruction, with 82% of buildings damaged. Public support for Hamas has declined to 33% in Gaza, though the organization still holds significant political sway. Contrasting views on the October 7 attack persist, with some residents condemning it and others celebrating it as a heroic act. The IDF now controls about 63% of the Strip, while an Israeli security official claims the humanitarian situation has improved, though Hamas is accused of exploiting aid.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Approximately 82% of Gaza's buildings have been damaged or destroyed three years after the October 7 attacks.
- Support for Hamas in Gaza has fallen to 33%, but the group retains significant political influence.
- Contrasting views on the October 7 attack persist among residents and commentators.
- The IDF currently controls about 63% of the Gaza Strip.
- An Israeli security official claims the humanitarian situation in Gaza is stable and improved.
- Hamas is accused by Israeli security of exploiting aid mechanisms to maintain its rule.
Three years after the Hamas attack on October 7, the Gaza Strip has been dramatically transformed, with widespread destruction impacting approximately 82% of its buildings, according to a UN analysis of satellite imagery. This equates to over 200,000 structures damaged, two-thirds of which have been demolished, leaving hundreds of thousands of housing units affected. Amidst this devastation, the article explores the evolving stance of Gaza's residents towards Hamas. While some attempted to protest the organization, these efforts were suppressed. A recent poll from August 2026 indicated a decline in support for Hamas within Gaza, with backing at 33% and overall Palestinian support at 24%. Satisfaction with Hamas's performance also dropped to 38% from 51% ten months prior.
Despite the erosion of support, a significant portion of Gazans remain hesitant to see Hamas disarmed. 62% of residents oppose Hamas's disarmament before a full Israeli withdrawal, and 72% of Palestinians believe that disarmament would lead to a renewal of hostilities without Israeli withdrawal. This suggests Hamas, while losing popularity, retains considerable political influence.
The article highlights contrasting perspectives on the October 7 attack. Alina, a Gaza resident, expressed personal animosity towards those celebrating the event, describing it as the day her family became numbers and her city was reduced to ruins. Egyptian writer Abdallah Ibrahim condemned the attack, calling it the day "madmen opened the way for the Zionists to destroy all of Gaza." Conversely, figures like Faiz Abu Shammala, former mayor of Khan Yunis, referred to October 7 as a "day of battle and heroism." Gazan influencer Abod Batah called it the "most beautiful memory," and Palestinian writer Yassin Azz al-Din described it as the day "God humiliated the tyrants."
Hamas itself continues to frame the attack as a historic turning point and a "glorious day," asserting the legitimacy of armed resistance. Satellite imagery confirms the extensive destruction, with former residential areas now vast ruins, and new infrastructure like roads and earthworks established by Israeli forces. The IDF reports controlling approximately 63% of Gaza and establishing around 40 new outposts.
An Israeli security official stated that the humanitarian situation in Gaza is "stable and much better" than a year ago. Since the ceasefire in October 2025, over 2.2 million tons of food have entered Gaza, with food prices reportedly dropping by 83%. Forty-one international bakeries are operating, producing over 3 million pitas daily, alongside local ones. Significant medical supplies have also been delivered, and hospitals are functioning. Israel also claims that over 70,000 cubic meters of water are supplied daily. However, Israeli security sources allege that Hamas exploits aid mechanisms for its own governance through taxation and control of goods.
Mentioned
The same event, reported separately by each outlet. Open a few to compare what different newsrooms emphasize — and what they leave out.
Centre 1Other 1
Not the same event — other stories that share this one’s people, places, or theme: background, reactions, and follow-ups.
