Israeli Security Reports Hamas Military Strength at 25,000 Fighters Amid Increased Executions
Israeli security sources revealed that Hamas currently has around 25,000 fighters in its military wing, including approximately 2,500 members of the elite Nukhba unit. This marks a decrease from pre-war figures, which estimated 35,000 fighters and 5,000 Nukhba operatives. The security establishment also noted that Hamas has intensified executions of opposition figures and suspected collaborators, now conducting these killings covertly in hidden locations such as hospital basements.
Additionally, a dramatic meeting between senior Hamas leaders and Iranian officials took place during the funeral of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Hamas presented Tehran with a document outlining its demands, including diplomatic security guarantees leveraging Iran's regional influence to support Hamas's negotiation terms. The organization firmly rejected any disarmament or political removal from Gaza post-conflict.
Hamas also requested inclusion in ongoing Iran-US negotiations, aiming to prioritize halting Israeli attrition operations in Gaza. Furthermore, the group demanded continuous financial support and restoration of logistical supply lines to rebuild its military capabilities. Iranian leadership pledged full support to Hamas. Meanwhile, senior Israeli military officers met with Egyptian counterparts in Cairo, reflecting ongoing regional security coordination.