Hamas Preserves Reserves for Potential IDF Withdrawal as Gaza Demilitarization Continues
Three years since the October 7 attacks, Hamas is preparing for a potential IDF withdrawal by preserving forces and hidden weaponry. The IDF continues systematic demilitarization east of the Yellow Line.
Hamas is actively preparing for a potential IDF withdrawal from parts of the Gaza Strip by preserving forces, weapons, and underground infrastructure to retake lost ground. Three years since the October 7 massacre, security sources indicate the terror group is trying to maintain its remaining combat brigades in Rafah and the northern Strip. Meanwhile, the IDF is systematically demilitarizing the territory east of the Yellow Line to prevent Hamas from rebuilding its offensive capabilities.
Systematic Demilitarization of the Strip
Surface-level clearing operations are largely complete, involving the destruction of residential structures used as terror infrastructure, weapons caches, or sniper positions. Underground clearing operations remain ongoing, with security forces utilizing specialized equipment and controlled detonations to neutralize cross-area tunnels. These operations previously disrupted Hamas leadership, directly contributing to the elimination of Yahya Sinwar in the Rafah area.
"Israel currently controls 63% of the Gaza Strip, forcing Hamas military units to retreat westward into the enclave's depths where their defensive capabilities remain severely degraded." — Security Sources
Diminishing Capabilities and Reserves
Intelligence assessments reveal that Hamas holds only a few hundred rockets, a steep decline from the thousands it possessed prior to the outbreak of the war. Furthermore, severe shortages of small arms and basic weaponry persist despite continuous smuggling attempts. While Hamas continues to recruit teenagers aged 16-17, basic training has been reduced to just one week due to ongoing military pressure and the systematic elimination of senior commanders.
The Civilian and Political Network
The core strength of Hamas extends beyond its military wing to its civilian network of charities, mosques, and financial institutions. However, the Gaza-based Political Bureau has suffered severe blows from targeted strikes, leaving newly appointed leaders structurally weaker. Despite these setbacks, security experts warn that without complete and permanent demilitarization, the terror group and allied factions like Palestinian Islamic Jihad will continue attempting to reconstitute their presence.
