Nukhba (Hamas)
Nukhba, also known as the Elite Forces, is an elite unit within the military wing of Hamas, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades. Hamas, a Palestinian political and militant group, has been designated as a terrorist organization by several countries, including the United States and the European Union.
Background:
Formation: The Nukhba force was established to serve as an elite unit within the broader structure of the al-Qassam Brigades.
Training: Members of the Nukhba unit undergo rigorous training, which is said to be more intensive than that of the regular al-Qassam fighters. This training covers various military tactics, including tunnel warfare, ambushes, and kidnapping operations.
Operational Role:
Tunnel Operations: One of the primary roles of the Nukhba unit is to operate within the extensive tunnel network that Hamas has constructed in the Gaza Strip. These tunnels serve various purposes, including smuggling, storage, and launching surprise attacks.
High-Profile Operations: The unit is also believed to be involved in planning and executing high-profile operations against Israeli targets, including kidnapping attempts.
Significance:
The presence of elite units like Nukhba underscores the evolving nature of Hamas's military capabilities. While the organization started as a primarily guerrilla force, it has since developed a more structured and advanced military wing, with specialized units like Nukhba playing critical roles in its operational strategy.