The ongoing conflict between the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Hamas in Gaza has led to a significant loss of life. Both sides have been using missiles, rockets, mortars, and other weapons in their attacks. Israel’s defense strategy has always emphasized self-sufficiency and advanced technology, and the nation has a highly regarded defense industry. Three Israeli companies, Elbit Systems, Israel Aerospace Industries, and Rafael, are among the world’s top 100 arms producers. Israel also imports weapons from other countries, with the majority of its imports coming from the US and Germany. The US provides significant military aid to Israel, including stockpiled weapons.
Hamas, on the other hand, faces restrictions due to Israeli blockades. To overcome this, they have constructed an extensive tunnel network under Gaza and across the Egyptian border. Most of their weapons come from Iran, transported through Egypt and smuggled into Gaza via the tunnels. They also acquire AK-47 assault rifles from China and Russia, and rocket-propelled grenades from North Korea and Bulgaria. Hamas also manufactures some arms within Gaza, with local factories producing mortars, rockets, rifles, and bullets, some of which are located within the underground tunnels.
The global arms trade is complex, and it can be difficult to determine who is selling weapons to whom. Copycat armaments are also part of the weapons business, with Hamas using Soviet-era weapon designs that have been copied and manufactured by China and Iran. Some countries, like Russia, give Hamas permission to imitate their products and Iran trains Gaza-based engineers on design and production techniques. Interestingly, when the Israeli military destroys buildings and equipment in Gaza, Hamas recycles the materials from the ruins to produce weapons.
As the conflict continues, Israel will likely be able to restock its depleted weapons with the support of the US. However, with Israel now occupying much of Gaza, it will be more challenging for Hamas to replenish its weapons.
