Salaries delayed, militants frustrated as Hamas nears financial collapse amid war with Israel: Report

Sources inside the Palestinian militant group Hamas have disclosed that the group is on the verge of financial collapse. According to a report by Al-Sharq Al-Awsat newspaper, the ongoing conflict with Israel is severely affecting both its military capabilities and finances.

The London-based newspaper mentioned that Hamas is struggling to pay salaries due to an intense financial crisis.

Sources indicated that the militant group has only been able to pay 900 shekels (around $240 USD) over four months, leading to widespread frustration among its members.

The financial problems are compounded by significant leadership losses due to the Israeli Defence Forces’ (IDF) targeting of Hamas leaders, creating a leadership gap within the group’s governance.

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IDF’s campaign continues in Gaza

Additionally, Gaza’s civil defence agency reported Saturday (May 24) that an Israeli strike in Khan Yunis killed nine children of two married doctors. The Israeli army is currently investigating these reports.

Israel has intensified its operations in Gaza recently, facing international criticism and calls to allow more supplies after partially easing a total blockade on aid enforced on March 2.

Footage from the civil defence agency showed rescuers retrieving badly burned remains from a damaged home.

When asked about the incident, the Israeli military stated it had targeted several suspects operating from a nearby structure.

UN says more aid needed in Gaza

The United Nations warned Saturday that only a teaspoon of aid was getting in Gaza following Israel’s 11-week-long blockade.

The Israeli military said 107 trucks carrying flour and other foodstuffs as well as medical supplies entered the Gaza Strip from the Kerem Shalom crossing point on Thursday, for a total of 305 since Monday when the blockade was relaxed.

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But getting the supplies to people sheltering in tents and other makeshift accommodations has been fitful, and UN officials say at least 500 to 600 trucks of aid are needed every day.

Despite the relaxation of the blockade, distribution has been hampered by looting by groups of men, some of them armed, near the city of Khan Younis, an umbrella network representing Palestinian aid groups said.

“They stole food meant for children and families suffering from severe hunger,” the network said in a statement, which also condemned Israeli airstrikes on security teams protecting the trucks.

(With inputs from agencies)