The Israel Defense Forces claim to have killed over 17,000 Hamas group fighters in the ongoing conflict. Despite these losses, Hamas still holds a strong support base in Gaza, the West Bank, and beyond. Naim stated that the group has leaders and cadres ready to continue their mission.
He recalled the deaths of top Hamas figures like Sheikh Ahmed Yassin, Abdul Aziz Rantisi, and Salah Shehadeh. Israeli forces targeted and killed these leaders in 2002 and 2004.
After Shehadeh’s death, Mohammed Deif took over Hamas’ military wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades. Deif is believed to have played a major role in the October 2023 attacks. While the IDF claims to have killed both Deif and his deputy Marwan Issa, Hamas has not confirmed it.
Naim highlighted that Hamas relies on collective action, not individual leaders. He stressed that, despite the losses, Hamas remains dedicated to its goals of liberation and return.
Recently, the IDF announced the killing of Yahya Sinwar, Hamas group Political Bureau chief, near Rafah. Sinwar was a key figure in planning the October 7, 2023 attacks, which escalated the war. His death, along with other leaders like Ismail Haniyeh, marks setbacks for Hamas. Despite this, Hamas insists their strategy remains unchanged. (News week)
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