Exclusive: Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigade Fighters and Child Recruits Emerge To Claim Leadership in Gaza
Fighters aimed to demonstrate strength to Israel, rivals in the Palestinian Authority, and residents of Gaza
[Gaza] A group of fighters from the Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades, the armed wing of Hamas, on Sunday, January 19, 2025, emerged from their tunnels beneath the Gaza Strip and made an open appearance on the streets of Deir al-Balah, where they interacted with local children, many of whom are reportedly undergoing training as recruits for the armed group. In an exclusive video obtained by The Media Line, young boys were seen posing with rocket launchers and other weapons as parents encouraged them to take souvenir photographs. Families attended the event in large numbers.
Earlier the same day, as the newly agreed-upon ceasefire with Israel took effect, Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigade forces held a public parade in Gaza City showcasing their strength.
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During the event, the fighters, traveling in white Toyota pickup trucks, displayed a range of weapons, including locally manufactured missiles, drones, rocket-propelled grenade launchers, and Russian-made Kornet missiles.
The purpose of the fighters’ unusual public appearance, above ground and in uniform, was to convey three key messages. To Israel and the international community, they aimed to demonstrate that they remain strong and undefeated. To the Palestinian Authority and other critics who accused them of provoking the war, they sent a message of readiness to govern Gaza. Finally, to the people of Gaza, they sought to assert control over local markets and public spaces, emphasizing their dominance in the region.
