Gaza Conflict Information
Comprehensive overview of key organizations, military operations, and humanitarian situation
Al-Qassam Brigades
The Al-Qassam Brigades are the military wing of the Palestinian political and militant organization Hamas. They are designated as a terrorist organization by several countries, including the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, and others.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades (EQB) |
| Parent Organization | Hamas |
| Status | Designated as a terrorist group by the EU, UK, US, Australia, and others |
| Primary Ideology | Palestinian nationalism, Sunni Islamism, anti-Zionism |
| Estimated Strength | 20,000 - 30,000+ fighters |
| Areas of Operation | Primarily the Gaza Strip, also West Bank, Lebanon, Syria |
Origins and Objectives
The Brigades were established in the early 1990s, around 1991-1992. They were named after Izz ad-Din al-Qassam, a Syrian Muslim preacher who led an anti-colonial rebellion against British and French rule in the Levant in the 1930s.
Organization and Capabilities
The Al-Qassam Brigades operate with a significant degree of independence from Hamas's political leadership. They are known for developing local weapons like the Qassam rocket and employ improvised explosive devices (IEDs), anti-tank missiles, and drones.
Current Military Situation
As of September 2025, the IDF has launched a major offensive in Gaza City following warnings from Defense Minister Israel Katz that the city could "turn into Rafah and Beit Hanoun" unless Hamas agrees to Israel's terms.
IDF Strategy and Operations
The IDF's ongoing operation, named Operation Gideon's Chariots II, aims for a decisive outcome in Gaza City. The strategy has shifted from quick raids to establishing long-term territorial control.
Hamas Adaptation
Despite sustaining heavy losses, Hamas has adapted to guerrilla warfare tactics, using improvised explosive devices (IEDs), ambushes from tunnel networks, and booby-trapped buildings.
| City | Status as of Mid-September 2025 | Context of Destruction |
|---|---|---|
| Gaza City | Subject of a new major Israeli ground assault | Long-threatened offensive began September 16, 2025 |
| Rafah | Largely reduced to rubble | Underwent a major Israeli offensive from May 2024 to May 2025 |
| Beit Hanoun | Entirely depopulated and destroyed | A focus of military operations early in the war |
Humanitarian Situation
Famine Declaration
The UN-backed Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) officially declared famine in Gaza City and surrounding areas in August 2025, with 514,000 people experiencing famine conditions.
Genocide Allegations
Amnesty International and a UN Commission of Inquiry have concluded that Israel is committing genocide, citing evidence of genocidal acts and intent by Israeli authorities.
Civilian Impact
The situation is described as "catastrophic" with mass displacement, hospitals taken out of service, and a confirmed famine in Gaza City.
International Organization Findings
| Organization | Declaration on Famine | Declaration on Genocide |
|---|---|---|
| Amnesty International | Yes | Yes |
| UN Commission of Inquiry | Report issued in context of declared famine | Yes |
| Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) | Yes | N/A |
Recent Developments
Clan-Based Opposition to Hamas
There are reports of clans in Gaza opposing Hamas and receiving support from Israel. In June 2025, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed that Israel is arming clans in Gaza to combat Hamas.
Evacuation Efforts
The IDF has issued massive-scale evacuation orders for Gaza City, displacing an estimated 450,000 to 550,000 people. However, these orders have been criticized as the designated safe zones are already filled to capacity.
As the conflict continues, international organizations are calling for immediate arms embargoes on Israel, demanding a ceasefire, and ensuring humanitarian aid can flow unimpeded to address the severe crisis.
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