Hamas is facing an escalating crisis in Gaza, battling against local clans that oppose its rule and relentless Israeli military pressure. It has lost key commanders and much of its tunnel network and now faces uncertainty about continued support from its ally, Iran.
According to three sources cited by Reuters, Hamas fighters now operate independently, ordered to hold out as long as possible, but the group is struggling to maintain control, especially as Israel openly supports rival clans.
One source said Hamas desperately needs a ceasefire due to the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, which is also fueling global pressure for a truce. A ceasefire, he added, would ease civilian suffering and allow Hamas to crush rogue elements, including looters and rebellious clans.
Hamas reportedly sent top fighters to eliminate Yasser Abu Shabab, a clan leader accused of working with Israel. However, he remains out of reach in Rafah, an area under Israeli control.
Reuters cited 16 sources—including Hamas affiliates, Israeli security officials, and diplomats—who described Hamas as deeply weakened. Despite still being able to carry out limited attacks, including one that killed seven Israeli soldiers last Tuesday, it has lost central command and relies on sporadic strikes.
An Israeli military source said over 20,000 Hamas fighters have been killed and most of its tunnel network destroyed. Gaza itself lies largely in ruins. Hamas is now recruiting younger, often homeless youth to replenish its ranks.
Yazid Sayigh, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Middle East Center, said Hamas is fighting not just to survive militarily, but politically. Without a ceasefire, he warned, the group faces possible annihilation and exclusion from any future governance.
The most prominent challenge comes from the Abu Shabab clan, which reportedly controls parts of Rafah and has even organized aid convoys. While denying ties to Israel, the clan claims to defend humanitarian aid from looters.
Some clans, however, still cooperate with Hamas. The Tribal Alliance said it is helping protect aid trucks in northern Gaza—a move reportedly approved by Hamas.
Meanwhile, Iran’s role is increasingly uncertain. A Hamas source said the group fears Tehran may reduce funding and military support following Israel’s strike on Iranian targets, including the killing of IRGC officer Saeed Izadi, a key Hamas liaison.