NEW YORK — Despite enduring significant losses in the ongoing conflict with Israel, the Palestinian terror group Hamas has recruited between 10,000 and 15,000 new members since the war began, according to sources briefed on US intelligence.
This suggests that Hamas, which remains supported by Iran, could continue to be a major threat to Israel’s security.
The figures, revealed by US intelligence officials, also highlight that while Hamas has bolstered its ranks, many of these new recruits are young and untrained, often tasked with simple security roles rather than frontline combat.
However, the group’s ability to replenish its forces rapidly indicates its persistence and the potential for an enduring insurgency.
The war between Hamas and Israel began on October 7, 2023, following a brutal attack by Hamas militants that killed approximately 1,200 Israelis and took more than 250 hostages.
In retaliation, Israel launched an extensive military operation, resulting in over 46,000 deaths, according to Hamas health officials.
While US officials have been cautious in releasing exact numbers, they have confirmed that Hamas has likely lost thousands of fighters since the start of the conflict.
In a statement on January 14, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken acknowledged the ongoing recruitment efforts of Hamas, warning that the group had managed to replace nearly as many fighters as it had lost.
Blinken cautioned that this “recipe for an enduring insurgency and perpetual war” would have long-term consequences for the region, underscoring the challenges of defeating such a deeply entrenched adversary.
Despite Israel’s vow to eliminate Hamas, the group has shown resilience, quickly reimposing security measures in Gaza and beginning efforts to restore basic services to the devastated region.
Although Israeli military officials, including Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Chief Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, have claimed significant damage to Hamas’ leadership and infrastructure, they also acknowledged that the group has not been completely eradicated.
The latest ceasefire, which began on Sunday after 15 months of fighting, has led to a temporary pause in hostilities. Israeli troops have started withdrawing from some positions inside Gaza, with plans for further negotiations on a potential permanent ceasefire.
However, the future of Gaza’s governance remains a contentious issue. Israeli officials have made it clear that they will not accept Hamas remaining in power, but the group has thus far shown no willingness to relinquish control.
International voices, including newly inaugurated US National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, have backed Israel’s stance, with Waltz stating that if Hamas reneges on the ceasefire deal, Washington will support Israel in continuing its military operations.
As the war enters a new phase, experts warn that while Hamas may have lost many of its fighters, its ability to recruit new members, particularly younger and less experienced individuals, poses a serious challenge to Israel’s efforts for long-term peace and stability in the region.