Israeli Strike in Qatar Highlights Hamas’ Resilience Amid Conflict

Israel recently conducted an airstrike targeting senior Hamas leaders in Qatar, coinciding with discussions over a potential ceasefire. This strike represents the latest effort by Israel to incapacitate Hamas, yet similar attempts have historically yielded limited results. While Hamas claims its top leaders survived the attack, it has not provided evidence to substantiate these assertions. Even if the strike had been successful, it is unlikely to eliminate Hamas, which has endured two years of conflict and continues to hold approximately 20 hostages in the Gaza Strip.

The current military offensive, which aims to seize control of Gaza City, has not delivered the “total victory” promised by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu following Hamas’ attack on October 7, 2023. The challenges in achieving this goal stem not only from Hamas’ ability to blend into the civilian population but also from the perception among some former Israeli security officials that Israel’s objectives may lead to a protracted state of conflict and occupation.

Hamas’ Struggles and Resilience

Despite significant losses, including the deaths of most of its senior leaders and thousands of fighters, Hamas continues to operate. The Israeli military estimates it has killed over 20,000 Hamas fighters, yet recruitment appears to have kept pace with these losses. According to former U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Hamas had managed to replace many of its fallen fighters by early January 2023.

The humanitarian toll of the conflict has been devastating. Palestinian civilian casualties are estimated in the tens of thousands, while substantial areas of Gaza have been reduced to rubble, leading to severe shortages of food and medical supplies. The ongoing violence has also deepened Israel’s isolation on the global stage, with even traditionally supportive Arab nations increasingly viewing Israel’s actions as aggressive.

As Israel asserts control over approximately 75% of Gaza, much of the territory has been left in ruins. The remaining Hamas presence largely exists within concentrated areas where the civilian population, estimated at 2 million, has sought refuge. Local families and armed groups, some of whom receive backing from Israel, have taken over many regions.

Hamas’ Internal Dynamics and Future

Despite the chaos, some elements of Hamas remain operational. According to Nahed Sheheiber, head of Gaza’s private truckers’ union, plainclothes Hamas police continue to enforce order in certain areas, conducting raids against looters and those hoarding resources. Furthermore, some civil servants report receiving partial salaries from the Hamas-run government, although essential services are mostly provided by international aid organizations.

In recent months, around 50 Israeli soldiers have died in Gaza due to hit-and-run attacks and explosives. The Israeli military has faced challenges in countering these tactics, leading to significant casualties among its troops. As public discontent grows regarding the war’s toll, mass protests have erupted in Israel, demanding negotiations with Hamas to secure the release of hostages.

While Hamas may control only a fraction of Gaza, it still influences much of the population. Researcher Kobi Michael from the Institute for National Security Studies notes that as long as residents view Hamas as a viable option for governance, they are unlikely to support alternative leadership. Hamas has expressed a willingness to transfer power to other Palestinian factions but has firmly stated it will not disarm.

Netanyahu’s administration maintains that the only viable solution lies in a prolonged Israeli security presence while delegating civilian governance. Nevertheless, enduring success in neutralizing Hamas could remain elusive. The group’s roots trace back to the late 1980s and have only strengthened through various conflicts. Its ideology persists despite challenges, and as long as Israeli occupation continues in territories sought for a future Palestinian state, Hamas is likely to endure.

The ongoing conflict serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian struggle. As both sides confront profound losses, the path towards a sustainable resolution remains fraught with obstacles.