Hamas Leader Outlines Next Campaign Strategy Amidst Ongoing Conflict

Three years after the October 7th Hamas attack, an analysis suggests Israel has not achieved a decisive victory, while Hamas, despite significant losses, is strategically positioning itself for future operations. The article highlights that while Israel focuses on the military aspect, Hamas is rebuilding its various wings and intends to persist. Militarily, Hamas's brigades in Gaza have been dismantled and its command structure broken, with its base in Lebanon largely destroyed. However, its military arm, though diminished, still poses a threat, operating in localized cells akin to a guerrilla force.

Hamas is reportedly refusing to disarm, aiming for military and political rehabilitation. Israel faces challenges in forcing disarmament due to internal considerations and potential prolonged conflict, which could strain Israeli society. Hamas leaders are aware of these challenges and seek to exploit them.

Internationally, Hamas is leveraging the conflict to elevate the Palestinian issue, which had been a low global priority. Leaders like Yahya Sinwar and Mohammed Deif demonstrated that Gaza under blockade posed a threat to global stability, initiating a conflict that has drawn in several nations. Hamas is reportedly seeking international pressure on Israel to resolve the Palestinian problem, warning that its neglect is a ticking time bomb.

Key international players, including Turkey and Qatar, are now supporting Hamas and have direct lines to the White House. The article notes that Israel's approach is alienating these nations, strengthening the pro-Hamas bloc. Notably, Khalil al-Hayya, a Hamas leader, has met with representatives of former US President Donald Trump, despite Hamas being designated a terrorist organization by the US. Public support for a Palestinian state in Western countries, even while condemning Hamas's actions, indirectly benefits the organization.

Furthermore, Hamas is reportedly concealing hundreds of released Palestinian prisoners in host countries like Turkey and Qatar. These individuals could potentially form a reserve force for Hamas operating from abroad. In a recent interview, Khalil al-Hayya indicated Hamas's intentions to overcome Israeli obstacles to Gaza's reconstruction, gain control of the Palestinian parliament and political life, and maintain its military strength. The author stresses the importance of understanding the enemy's intentions and learning from past failures, particularly the underestimation of Hamas's motivations prior to the October 7th attack.