Rebuilding Hamas: Strengthening Military Capabilities and Leadership in Gaza
Hamas is in the process of rebuilding its terror infrastructure in Gaza, taking advantage of the ceasefire with Israel to strengthen its military capabilities, address leadership issues, and recruit young fighters. According to security analyst Kobi Michael, Hamas has been able to consolidate its control in the western part of Gaza during the lull in hostilities.
Since Israeli forces withdrew from parts of Gaza in October, Hamas has been filling the power vacuum left behind. Reports indicate that Hamas is actively rebuilding its presence in significant areas of Gaza, including those previously controlled by the IDF. The organization is said to be rebuilding its regime of terror in nearly half of the territory it governs.
Hamas is also preparing to elect a new political leader following the deaths of key figures like Ismail Haniyeh and Yahya Sinwar. The contenders for the leadership position include Khalil al-Hayya and Khaled Mashaal, with Hayya being the favorite due to his popularity in Gaza. However, the leadership change is not expected to alter Hamas's militant course.
One concerning development is Hamas's success in recruiting teenagers during the ceasefire. The organization has become a reliable employer in Gaza, offering small incomes to young boys as young as 16 or 17. The recruitment of teenagers has been facilitated by Hamas's control over the western part of Gaza and the appeal of joining a group that offers a sense of revenge and belonging.
Hamas has been actively rebuilding tunnels and appointing new governors to different districts in Gaza. The organization is reconstituting its government and military structures, taking advantage of the freedom of movement it currently enjoys. Despite the leadership changes and rebuilding efforts, Hamas's commitment to armed resistance remains unchanged.
In conclusion, Hamas is using the ceasefire to strengthen its position in Gaza, rebuild its infrastructure, and recruit new fighters, including teenagers. The organization's leadership is undergoing changes, but its militant course and commitment to armed resistance persist. The rebuilding efforts include the construction of tunnels, appointment of new governors, and reconstitution of government and military stockpiles.