Hamas Strengthens Military Control in Gaza Amid Civilian Hardship and Israeli Pressure
On May 15, Israeli military intelligence and the Air Force killed Iz al-Din al-Hadad, commander of Hamas's military wing, in a raid on his hideout in Gaza's Rimal neighborhood. Despite expectations of a large funeral procession, only youths participated while adults remained hidden, reflecting fear of Israeli intelligence and widespread despair among Gaza's two million residents. Israeli defense officials emphasize that Gaza's military and civilian crises are deeply intertwined, with no clear regional or international force able to separate them except intense Israeli military action.
Hamas continues to govern Gaza despite over 1,000 days of conflict, maintaining control through a combination of repression and social services. The organization has suppressed public protests against deteriorating economic and infrastructure conditions by deploying armed masked operatives. According to Israeli military sources, Hamas is evolving tactically, avoiding open confrontation to reduce exposure to Israeli strikes, while quietly preparing for future conflict through recruitment, arming approximately 27,000 fighters, and rebuilding tunnel networks.
Life for Gaza's civilians remains dire, with most living in tents without running water or electricity, relying on limited food aid and informal markets. Attempts to restore normalcy, such as reopening cafes and facilitating remote education, remain limited and fragile. Clan conflicts have resurfaced, sometimes exploited by Hamas to maintain control. The group enforces strict internal security through units like "Arrow," conducting arrests and interrogations to prevent dissent.
Israeli military leadership, including Southern Command Chief Major General Yaniv Asor, advocates renewing offensive operations against Hamas, especially in areas of Gaza City not yet penetrated by Israeli forces. Hamas is expected to initially defend but then counterattack Israeli troops, avoiding attacks on Israeli civilians to preserve international support. Meanwhile, the United States opposes renewed fighting and pushes for a multinational force and technocratic government to replace Hamas, though such efforts have yet to materialize.
Overall, Hamas remains a potent force in Gaza, consolidating power amid civilian suffering and international diplomatic constraints, while Israel prepares for possible escalations in the ongoing conflict.
