Hamas's Remaining Strength After Three Years of War
Translated & summarized from Behadrei Haredim by baba
Three years after the October 7th attacks, Hamas's military strength is estimated at 25,000 to 30,000 fighters, though their training is significantly shorter than before the war. The organization has suffered heavy losses in leadership, with key commanders eliminated, impacting its command structure. While much of its tunnel network has been degraded, a substantial portion remains, and Hamas continues to operate governance and security mechanisms, retaining influence in Gaza.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Hamas's fighter numbers are estimated between 25,000 and 30,000, but new recruits undergo drastically shortened training.
- Key Hamas leaders, including Mohammed Deif and Yahya Sinwar, have been eliminated, severely weakening its command structure.
- A significant portion of Hamas's extensive tunnel network remains intact despite Israeli efforts to destroy it.
- Rocket fire from Gaza has decreased, but Hamas reportedly continues rocket production and weapon smuggling.
- Hamas maintains governance and security mechanisms, retaining practical control and influence in populated areas of Gaza.
Three years after the October 7th attacks, Hamas's military strength remains a subject of debate, with estimates of its active fighters ranging from 25,000 to 30,000, including new recruits. While this number is comparable to pre-war estimates, the quality of these fighters differs significantly from seasoned combatants who were part of organized military structures with extensive weaponry and communication systems. New recruits undergo drastically shortened training periods, sometimes as little as 28 hours over seven days, focusing on basic combat skills, religious instruction, and pledging allegiance to the organization.
The most significant blow to Hamas has been the decimation of its leadership. Key figures like Mohammed Deif, Yahya Sinwar, and Mohammed Sinwar have been eliminated, along with numerous brigade and battalion commanders. The assassinations of successive military wing leaders, including Az al-Din al-Haddad and his replacement Mohammed Odeh, have severely impacted Hamas's command structure and its ability to conduct coordinated large-scale operations.
While the extensive tunnel network, estimated at 550 to 650 kilometers, has been significantly degraded, it has not been entirely destroyed. The IDF estimates that at least 60% of the network remains intact, though Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that 83% of tunnels in areas under Israeli control have been destroyed. Hamas continues to maintain and repair existing tunnels in areas outside Israeli control, using them to conceal weapons, move operatives, and preserve operational capabilities.
The threat from rocket fire has also substantially decreased since the war's outset, with approximately 10,200 rockets and mortars launched towards Israel over three years. However, Hamas reportedly continues to operate rocket production facilities in populated areas and smuggle weapons, though the actual pace of rearmament is difficult to ascertain.
Beyond its military capabilities, Hamas retains significant influence through its continued operation of governance and security mechanisms. Despite Israel controlling about two-thirds of Gaza, Hamas maintains practical control over large populated areas. Reports indicate that many government ministries and local authorities have partially resumed operations, and the organization continues to collect taxes and pay salaries to its operatives, thereby preserving its societal influence.
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