Personal ties as force multipliers in psychological warfare: Hamas’s PSYOP after October 7

This study analyses psychological operations (PSYOP) of Hamas after 7 October 2023, attack on Israel, focusing on their impact on the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF). Using the Effects-Based Psychological Operations Framework, the research evaluated Hamas’s objectives and methods using PSYOP materials and interviews with IDF personnel. The findings revealed that Hamas aimed to instil fear and weaken morale, but their atrocities galvanised Israeli determination to dismantle Hamas. Indirect influence through personal networks and media amplified Hamas’s messages, exploiting Israel’s intertwined military-civilian structure. While Hamas’s direct efforts had limited success, secondary dissemination via trusted sources impacted emotions and bypassed countermeasures.