The death of Saleh al-Arouri doesn’t hurt Hamas one of its most experienced tacticians. Al-Arouri directed finances and weapons to the group’s operatives in Gaza and other parts of the Middle East. He also integrated Hamas into Iran’s network of forces dedicated to fighting Israel. He helped keep Hamas afloat despite the Israeli military and intelligence catching onto the group’s plans and efforts.
Al-Arouri’s death, in a strike in a Beirut suburb on Tuesday, was attributed to Israel by senior officials from Hamas, Lebanon, and the United States. He was the de facto ambassador to Iran and Hezbollah for Hamas. His position was crucial in the group’s attempts to rebuild militarily with support from foreign backers. Israel has not taken responsibility for his assassination.
Al-Arouri’s death suggests that Hamas members may no longer be safe in Lebanon. Furthermore, this could change the way the group operates considerably. He met with Iran’s supreme leader and Hasan Nasrallah, an influential figure in Hezbollah. Al-Arouri’s death also put new pressures on the group, which could lead to a transformative period.
Israel, the United States, and other countries consider Hamas a terrorist organization, making it difficult for leaders to travel. Any country that supports the group could be reluctant to do so, fearing the potential consequences.
However, the loss of Mr. al-Arouri would not derail Hamas. The group has always been able to recover and adapt after the assassination of its leaders.
