Ismail Haniyeh is acknowledged as the group’s top leader, while Yahya Sinwar is recognized as the leader in the Gaza Strip. The Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades, Hamas’s military wing, is led by Mohammed Deif. Then there is Zaher Jabarin, who plays a pivotal role, often referred to as the “CEO” of Hamas due to his management of the group’s finances. According to a report in the Wall Street Journal, Jabarin, now a central figure in Hamas, manages a portfolio worth hundreds of millions of dollars, crucial for the group’s operations against Israel.
IDF conducts targeted operations against Hamas in southern, central Gaza
According to the WSJ report, Jabarin is a key figure in managing the financial relationship between Hamas and Iran, a role that involves overseeing the transfer of funds from Tehran to the Gaza Strip. His responsibilities extend to a portfolio of companies generating annual income for Hamas, alongside a network of private donors and businessmen investing in the Islamist group.
Jabarin’s influence on Hamas’s finances is profound. US and Israeli security officials believe his financial acumen played a crucial role in funding the October 7 attacks, providing the necessary resources for weapons and fighters’ wages. “Jabarin played a huge role because he handles all of Hamas finance outside Gaza,” Uzi Shaya, a former Israeli security official, told the WSJ. “Jabarin is the CEO of Hamas.”
Jabarin’s close ties with Saleh al-Arouri, a Hamas official recently killed in an explosion attributed to Israel, were instrumental in founding Hamas’s military wing in the West Bank. Both were known for their close connections to Iran.
Despite potential military setbacks in Gaza, Israel remains concerned about the resilience of Hamas’s financial network. Jabarin has successfully navigated through Western sanctions, utilizing financial systems across several countries to funnel money into Gaza.
The US and Israel have faced significant challenges in disrupting Hamas’s funding. Despite over two decades of sanctions against Hamas officials and affiliated companies, the group continues to raise cash, maintaining support in parts of the Arab and Muslim world for its stance on the Palestinian cause.
Turkey connection
According to the WSJ report, under Jabarin, Hamas’s financial office in Istanbul holds stakes in various companies. His connections, including those close to Turkish President Erdogan, are said to aid Hamas’s weapon procurement and funding, with Iran transferring significant sums to support the group.
He has also played a key role in maintaining Hamas’s ties with Hezbollah in Lebanon, coordinating financial transactions through local money changers.
Jabarin, in an interview with the Wall Street Journal, said: “It is an honor to get funds for Hamas.” However, he refutes any personal involvement in fundraising activities, emphasizing, “This is an accusation, not a fact.”
An uncertain horizon
Despite the US intensifying sanctions post the October 7 attacks, targeting officials and businesses linked to Hamas, the flow of funds continues. Jabarin’s role remains central in this financial tug-of-war.
However, even As Jabarin continues to navigate the complex world of international finance and politics, the future of Hamas’s financial stability, amidst ongoing sanctions and global scrutiny, remains a subject of intense interest and concern.