In a revealing interview [1] with The Media Line, Dr. Udi Levy, former head of Mossad’s Economic Warfare Division and now a senior researcher at the Jerusalem Institute of Strategy and Security, shared insights into the financial workings of Hamas. Levy said that the billions of dollars received by Hamas from global sources were critical in developing its extensive capabilities. He disclosed that in 2014, his unit had warned the Israeli government about significant financial support flowing to Hamas, primarily from Qatar. This influx of funds, which the Israeli government allowed in hopes of easing tensions, enabled Hamas to build extensive tunnel networks, acquire a large rocket arsenal, and pay its personnel.
Despite the weakening of Hamas’ financial system due to the war, Levy pointed out that the group still accesses substantial funds, including those in Turkish banks, and diverted humanitarian aid. Levy emphasized that military efforts alone are not enough to defeat groups like Hamas; cutting off their funding is key. He also warned of the broader implications, stressing that if the global community fails to stop funding radical groups, liberal Western nations risk allowing terrorist ideologies to take root within their borders.
For a more in-depth understanding of this complex issue, watch the full interview [1] on The Media Line’s website.