In the wake of a brutal conflict, Hamas finds itself grappling with significant losses and a shattered infrastructure in Gaza. Israeli officials have asserted that Hamas has lost approximately 17,000 fighters, a claim that has sparked skepticism. The pre-war strength of Hamas's military wing was estimated to be around 70,000 fighters, suggesting that the alleged casualties would account for about a quarter of their forces. Despite these losses, some of Hamas's major formations in central Gaza remain unscathed, highlighting the complex dynamics of the post-war landscape.
The conflict has taken a heavy toll on Hamas, resulting in the deaths of many top leaders, including Yahya Sinwar. The organization has also lost control over the territory it governed for 16 years. Much of the tunnel network, a strategic asset built under Gaza, has been destroyed. With these setbacks, Hamas can only sporadically fire projectiles at targets located a mere dozen kilometers away.
Despite the substantial losses, Hamas fighters were seen on Gaza's streets mere hours after a ceasefire was declared on Sunday. This swift reappearance underscores the resilience and enduring presence of the group in the region. Meanwhile, aid organizations continue to interact with familiar administrators, indicating that elements of Hamas's administrative structure remain operational.
The Israeli Defense Forces have reported that 8,500 militants have been killed during the conflict. However, this figure includes combatants from other armed groups and possibly non-combatant members of Hamas, casting doubt on the accuracy of these numbers. The death toll among Hamas officials is significant, and their extensive network of clubs, charities, and religious associations has been scattered as a result of the hostilities.
A Hamas media office continues to function amid the chaos, ambitiously announcing a "government plan" aimed at restoring Gaza to its pre-war condition. This statement illustrates Hamas's efforts to maintain a semblance of governance and order in the war-torn region.
The recent fighting in Beit Hanoun, a town in northern Gaza, has been particularly fierce. Israeli commanders underestimated the size and morale of Hamas's forces in this area, leading to intense confrontations. This miscalculation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by both parties in accurately assessing each other's capabilities.