Israel Uncovers Iran’s Longstanding Financial Support for Hamas

In a significant intelligence revelation, Israel has uncovered documents that confirm years of financial support from Iran to Hamas, totaling tens of millions of dollars annually over the past two decades. The documents, obtained during Israeli military operations in Gaza, have provided critical insights into the deepening alliance between Iran and Hamas, as part of Tehran's broader strategy to influence the Gaza Strip and support the "Axis of Resistance" against Israel.

The documents, published in a recent report by The Meir Amit Intelligence and Terrorism Information Center, reveal the extent of Iran’s financial and military backing for Hamas. Iran has been a primary strategic sponsor of Hamas since 2014, providing both financial aid and military support. According to the reports, Iran’s funding has amounted to hundreds of millions of dollars, strengthening Hamas’s leadership and military capabilities, and enabling attacks against Israeli targets.

These records highlight how Iran has played a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of Hamas’s military operations. Additionally, senior Hamas figures have publicly acknowledged Iran's contribution, expressing gratitude for the weapons and resources that have enabled them to carry out attacks deep within Israeli territory.

Iran’s Influence on Other Terror Groups

Beyond its financial support to Hamas, Iran’s influence extends to other terror organizations operating within Gaza. Documents reveal that Iran has also funded civilian, educational, and cultural projects in Gaza, while bolstering other militant factions. This strategic investment not only supports Hamas's operations but also facilitates Iran’s broader goal of establishing a foothold in the region and expanding its influence over Palestinian and regional jihadist movements.

Preparing for Major Confrontations: Coordination with Hezbollah

The intelligence documents provide new information about Iran’s role in preparing Hamas for the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel. Iranian authorities, while denying knowledge of the timing of the attack, are shown to have coordinated with both Hamas and Hezbollah for more than two years to execute a major confrontation against Israel. This long-term planning involved both strategic and tactical coordination between Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iranian officials, with financial resources allocated for weapons procurement and operational readiness.

Additionally, a letter uncovered during the investigation reveals that Hamas and Iran had agreed to a special monthly budget of $7 million in preparation for this conflict, with Hamas requesting an advance payment for the coming months. The funds were used for both military preparations and civilian outreach programs designed to solidify Iranian influence within Gaza.

Smuggling and Arms Transfers: A Complex Network

The documents also shed light on the methods Hamas uses to smuggle weapons into Gaza, with a network of trusted smugglers, including routes through Yemen and even a potential submarine channel coordinated with Iran. This complex web of arms procurement and logistics has allowed Hamas to bolster its arsenal, preparing for a larger-scale confrontation with Israel.

Conclusion

The intelligence documents underscore the longstanding and deeply intertwined relationship between Iran and Hamas, which has been pivotal in shaping the dynamics of conflict in the Gaza Strip. Iran’s financial and military support has not only bolstered Hamas’s military capabilities but also facilitated the group's broader strategic objectives.