Key Takeaways:
- Hamas fighters and employees go unpaid for months.
- Islamic group struggles to buy weapons and maintain control.
- Gazans protest against Hamas rule, waving white flags.
- Hamas loses assets, faces pressure from Israeli forces.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas is heating up, with new reports revealing that Hamas is in a tough spot financially. Fighters and employees linked to the Islamic group have not been paid for nearly three months. This comes after Israel blocked humanitarian aid from entering Gaza in March.
Hamas Faces Financial Crisis
According to a report from the Jerusalem Post, the military wing of Hamas, known as the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, is struggling to pay its fighters and purchase weapons. Palestinian Authority employees connected to Hamas are also feeling the strain, earning only 900 shekels a month—a fraction of their usual income.
The financial pressure is just one part of the challenges Hamas is facing. Israel’s military actions have reportedly destroyed much of Hamas’ assets and disrupted its command structure.
Israeli Military Chief: Hamas Losing Control
During a visit to Gaza, Israel’s Defense Forces Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, stated that Hamas is under “great pressure” and has lost most of its control over Gaza. He emphasized that Israel is following a planned strategy to weaken Hamas.
“We are intensifying our activity according to a structured plan,” Zamir told soldiers fighting in southern Gaza. “Hamas is under tremendous pressure; it has lost most of its assets and its command-and-control structure. We will use all our tools to bring the hostages home, to defeat Hamas, and to dismantle its rule.”
Zamir also made it clear that Israel plans to end the conflict quickly and achieve its goals. “This is not an endless war; we will shorten it as we achieve its goals,” he said.
Gazans Protest Against Hamas Rule
As the situation worsens for Hamas, residents of Gaza are openly expressing their frustration. In late March, hundreds of Gazans marched in the northern town of Beit Lahiya, waving white flags and calling for an end to Hamas rule. Some even demanded the release of Israeli hostages held by the group.
This public backlash highlights the declining popularity of Hamas in Gaza. The group’s inability to govern effectively and protect its people has led to widespread dissatisfaction.
Meanwhile, in the West Bank, Hamas members are facing increased arrests and crackdowns by Israeli and Palestinian security forces. Many Hamas cells have been dismantled or lost funding, making it harder for them to carry out terrorist attacks.
What’s Next?
The situation in Gaza continues to escalate, with Hamas struggling on multiple fronts. Financial struggles, loss of control, and public protests are all taking a toll on the organization. As Israel continues its military operations, the question remains: How long can Hamas hold on?
For now, the conflict remains a critical issue in the region, with both sides dug in and determined to achieve their goals. Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.