Since its establishment on Arab land in 1948, Israel has maintained a formidable military presence in the region. It has been renowned for its legendary, seemingly invincible army. However, recent clashes with Hamas, particularly during the “Operation Sword of Al-Quds,” have raised questions about the balance of power. This article provides a comparative overview of Israel’s military capabilities and the evolving strengths of Hamas in Gaza.
Israel’s Military Might:
- Army Strength:
Israel’s active military consists of 169,000 soldiers, with over 400,000 reservists. Approximately 1.7 million people are eligible for military service in Israel. - Air Force Dominance:
Israel possesses 595 multi-role combat aircraft, including 241 fighter jets and 23 attack aircraft. It also has 128 military helicopters, specialized mission aircraft, and cargo planes. The Israeli Air Force is known for its cutting-edge technology and capabilities. - Ground Forces:
Israel’s ground forces consist of 140,000 soldiers. They are equipped with 1,650 tanks, including 500 advanced Merkava tanks with active protection systems, making them among the most heavily armored tanks globally. Israel also has 7,500 armored fighting vehicles and a substantial artillery force. - Naval Power:
The Israeli Navy comprises 65 vessels, including 48 warships, 5 submarines, and 4 patrol boats. Israel’s naval vessels are equipped with advanced missile systems and possess high technological efficiency. - Iron Dome:
Israel boasts the Iron Dome, a mobile defense system designed to intercept and counter short-range missiles and artillery shells in various weather conditions. It uses interceptor missiles to destroy incoming threats. - Nuclear Arsenal:
Israel is widely considered the world’s fifth nuclear power. It possesses nuclear warheads that can be launched up to 1,500 kilometers using Jericho missiles. Israel is estimated to have around 200 nuclear warheads and substantial stocks of uranium and plutonium, allowing for the production of additional nuclear weapons.
Hamas’ Growing Capabilities:
- Rocket Development:
Hamas began its rocket program in 2001 with the Qassam 1 rocket, which had a limited range of 3 kilometers. Over time, Hamas has remarkably advanced its rocket manufacturing capabilities, with rockets capable of striking various Israeli cities. - Long-Range Rockets:
Hamas has developed long-range rockets like the “Ayyash” with a range of 250 kilometers and “Jabari 80,” known for its ability to deceive Israel’s Iron Dome system. - Drones:
Hamas has rapidly developed drone technology. Its “Ababeel” drone was introduced in 2014 and used in confrontations with Israel. The “Shehab” drone can carry explosive payloads, surveil enemy positions, and remain stealthy. - Elite Commandos:
Hamas maintains elite commando units like the Qassam Brigades, which excel in guerrilla warfare and have successfully infiltrated Israeli territory. - Naval Commandos:
Hamas also has naval commando units that conducted amphibious operations during “Operation Sword of Al-Quds,” inflicting significant losses on Israeli forces. - Airborne Assault:
Hamas introduced the “Falcon Unit” for airborne assaults, which infiltrated Israeli towns in the initial phases of the recent conflict.
By the Numbers:
During “Operation Sword of Al-Quds,” Israel reported approximately 700 casualties and over 2,000 injuries. Conversely, Israel launched airstrikes on Gaza, resulting in over 400 civilian deaths, including women and children.
While Israel remains a military powerhouse in the region, Hamas has steadily improved its military capabilities over the years. The recent conflict has shown that Hamas possesses advanced weaponry, elite units, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. As the situation in the region evolves, it is essential to closely monitor the military dynamics between Israel and Hamas.
