Despite nearly two years of war and heavy Israeli bombardment, Hamas has continued to pay thousands of civil servants in Gaza using a covert cash-based system.
The group’s military capacity is diminished and its political leadership is under pressure, yet it still manages to distribute around seven million dollars every ten weeks.
The BBC has spoken to three civil servants who confirmed they recently received about 300 dollars each. It is estimated that about thirty thousand employees continue to receive roughly one-fifth of their original salary, paid out at irregular intervals.
The system functions in the shadows, relying on encrypted messages and clandestine handovers. In the absence of a functioning banking sector, Hamas salary collectors are frequently targeted by Israeli forces, making the collection of pay dangerous. Some recipients say they bid their families farewell each time, unsure they will return.
The payments arrive in poor condition, often in tattered banknotes. One teacher said only a fraction of the money he received was usable. The ongoing conflict has also pushed prices to extreme levels. A single kilogram of flour can cost as much as eighty dollars, leaving many residents in desperation.
Hamas is believed to have stored hundreds of millions in cash and local currency in tunnels before the war began. The funds were allegedly overseen by the Sinwar brothers, both now reported dead.
Criticism is growing over how aid and resources are being distributed. Hamas is accused of favouring its supporters while others struggle. Some residents report watching neighbours affiliated with the group receive regular food parcels while their own families go hungry.
Israel has long accused Hamas of diverting aid for its own use. Hamas denies the claims, but tensions continue to rise as shortages worsen and anger builds among the population.
