Ex-Shin Bet research head: Hamas controls Gaza Strip, generates up to 5 million dollars daily
Hamas "sells paid solutions in Gaza and is the main employment factor," she said, adding that it "determines who in the population will receive what, and creates dependency."
Former head of the Israeli Shin Bet research headquarters, Neomi Neumann, stated on Thursday that Hamas still controls the Gaza Strip, despite three years of war. According to Neumann, Hamas effectively maintains control over the region, as the Palestinian public associates the militant group with their daily lives, leading many to believe Hamas is permanent.
Neumann, now a researcher at the Washington Institute, explained that Hamas operates as a decentralized government, with secret units enforcing discipline and restoring control in areas where power has collapsed. The militant group generates between 2 and 5 million US dollars daily through heavy taxation on goods in Gaza, as well as by selling black market products at high prices and providing paid solutions to residents.
Neumann emphasized that Hamas enforces dependency among the population, determining who receives what and creating a system of control. Furthermore, she added that Hamas currently determines the future of Gaza, stating that until Israel disarms Hamas, the militant group will not relinquish power.
Despite Neumann's claims, US President Donald Trump's plan for Gaza should continue, according to Neumann. However, she noted two challenges: Hamas demands Israel withdraw first, while Israel insists on Hamas disarming. Neumann suggested that the National Committee for the Management of Gaza and the Multinational Stabilization Force should be incorporated into Gaza, in order to weaken Hamas's control.
Neumann further proposed that the Palestinian Authority should take over governance in Gaza, and Hamas's income sources must be eliminated. She also stressed the need to prevent Hamas infiltration into the West Bank and to create aid mechanisms that are independent of the militant group. Lastly, Neumann urged Israel to prevent Hamas's growing presence in the West Bank.
Democrats MK Gilad Kariv responded to Neumann's report, stating that it represents "Netanyahu's absolute victory," and that the Israeli Prime Minister poses a threat to Israel's security. A source in the Gaza Board of Peace criticized Israel's current policy, explaining that Israel has not completely dismantled Hamas and should do so for the region's betterment. The source hoped that Israel would soon implement the 20-point agreement it signed with Hamas.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
