Hamas Faces Financial Crisis Amid Israeli Military Pressure and Growing Public Unrest

Hamas Faces Financial Crisis Amid Israeli Military Pressure and Growing Public Unrest

As Israel intensifies its military operations against Hamas in Gaza, the terror group is grappling with a severe financial crisis. Recent reports suggest that Hamas struggles to pay its employees, raising questions about its operational capacity and stability.

According to a recent article from the Wall Street Journal, the organization has stopped salary payments for many of its government workers. Even senior figures in Hamas have only received half of their normal compensation during the recent Ramadan period. Combatants who previously earned between $200 and $300 per month now find it difficult to receive payment. The tightening grip of the Israeli Defense Forces, alongside the cessation of humanitarian aid, has worsened this situation.

Dr. Michael Milstein, the head of the Forum for Palestinian Studies at Tel Aviv University, pointed out that although financial troubles are significant, the motivation for Hamas operatives extends beyond monetary compensation. He stated that Hamas plays a crucial role in providing essential services such as food, water, and medical care to families in Gaza. Milstein also noted that despite financial hurdles, Hamas has weathered similar crises in the past without experiencing collapse.

Israel’s Ongoing Military Operations in Gaza

The IDF has launched a renewed ground operation in Gaza against Hamas targets, further amplifying pressures on the organization. In a recent development, IDF forces eliminated the battalion commander in the Sajia area for the fifth time, leading to a swift replacement. According to Milstein, Hamas retains a similar number of military operatives as it did before the recent escalation, despite substantial losses. The nature of recruitment in Gaza ensures that even with fewer experienced fighters, manpower remains available.

Milstein elaborated on the situation, noting that weapons such as RPGs, explosives, and rifles remain accessible to Hamas, allowing them to continue operations despite other shortages.

Hamas’ Endurance Amid Financial Strain

Gazan political analyst Mkhaimar Abusada emphasized Hamas’ resilience, claiming the group has navigated external financial pressures for nearly two decades. He stated that Hamas consistently finds ways to generate income, including bypassing sanctions through black market activities and taxing local merchants. While the financial constraints complicate Hamas’ operations, they are not predicted to drive the group to collapse.

In previous years, Qatar provided crucial monthly transfers of $15 million to Hamas, which contributed to building a financial stockpile estimated at around $500 million, much of it now stored in Turkey. However, Israel’s strengthened blockade has drastically limited access to these financial resources, forcing Hamas to adapt and seek new revenue streams, primarily through illicit activities.

Rising Discontent Among Gazans

In the face of this financial crisis, a wave of protests against Hamas has begun to take shape. While initially small, demonstrations in Gaza City and its surroundings now call for an end to Hamas’ rule, with chants such as