Amid Israel’s military campaign against Hamas in Gaza, the terror group is facing an unprecedented financial crisis. The Wall Street Journal reported that salary payments to Hamas government employees have ceased, and even senior officials received only half of their usual pay. Despite financial difficulties, Hamas operatives are motivated by ideology rather than money, providing essential supplies to families in Gaza. Hamas has weathered similar financial crises in the past without collapsing, utilizing new income sources like black-market activities and taxes on merchants.
The IDF has killed Hamas battalion commanders multiple times, but the terrorist group manages to fill the ranks with new recruits, including children from refugee camps. Hamas continues to have a substantial number of military operatives and access to weapons like RPGs, explosives, and rifles. Qatar had been providing Hamas with monthly transfers of $15 million, helping to build a stockpile of around $500 million stored in Turkey. However, Israel’s tightened blockade has limited access to these funds, forcing Hamas to rely on illicit financial flows and circumvent sanctions.
Protests against Hamas have started to gain traction in Gaza City and surrounding areas, calling for an end to Hamas’ rule with some shouting “Hamas out!” Initially anti-war and anti-Israel, these demonstrations have taken on anti-Hamas slogans. However, Hamas has responded violently to dissent, with reports of protesters being tortured to death for their involvement. Despite the financial crisis and protests, Hamas is expected to find ways to recover as they have survived external financial pressures for nearly two decades.
The amount of hatred towards Israel and Hamas among Gazans has increased, leading to protests lacking leadership and organization. Hamas has violently suppressed protests, causing some to quickly dwindle. Recent reports suggest that more Palestinians, including those with dual citizenship, are leaving Gaza for Europe through Ramon Airport. This aligns with Israel Katz’s Ministry of Defense plan to encourage permanent relocation and President Trump’s vision for the relocation of Gazans. Many Palestinians are leaving due to the destruction of infrastructure and lack of basic needs in Gaza.
While Europe may not be open to large numbers of refugees from Gaza, many leaving Gaza are dual nationals or have European residency. Living in a war zone for 18 months with no infrastructure has forced many Palestinians to seek a better life elsewhere. Despite financial difficulties, violence, and protests, Hamas continues to survive in Gaza and manipulate its financial situation to stay afloat. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza shows no signs of coming to an end, leaving many Palestinians in a state of uncertainty and desperation.
