Hamas Adopts Delay Strategy Against Netanyahu, Rejects Concessions in Negotiations

A leaked internal Hamas document revealed over the weekend outlines a strategic shift by the terrorist organization in its ongoing negotiations mediated by third parties regarding disarmament. Hamas leadership recently held in-depth discussions and decided to adopt a deliberate delay and time-dragging strategy in dealings with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, according to a report by Elior Levy on Kan 11.

Hamas assesses that Netanyahu is determined to run again in the upcoming Israeli elections and believes the prime minister views any significant concession or withdrawal in Gaza as political suicide that could topple his coalition. Consequently, Netanyahu is reportedly employing a strategy of delays as part of his election campaign. Hamas has chosen a counter-maneuver approach, aiming to stall negotiations until the end of 2026 to await the election results and see who will lead the next Israeli government.

The document also exposes pressure from Qatar and Turkey on Hamas to show flexibility and offer "tactical concessions," including on sensitive issues like the group’s weapons. The goal was to create a diplomatic trap to embarrass Israel and the US internationally, assuming Netanyahu would reject such concessions due to political considerations, thereby removing blame from Hamas for hardening positions. Despite this, Hamas leadership rejected the Qatar-Turkey proposal, fearing that any temporary concession now would become a baseline for further international pressure in the future.

Separately, a presentation revealed last Tuesday by Channel 13, prepared by the IDF, detailed Hamas’s practical and military preparations for another confrontation with Israel. Hamas is focusing on training and specialized military units, recruiting young fighters aged 18 to 22 called the "Naha generation," and producing hundreds of explosives and rockets monthly. The group is also accelerating smuggling operations, including drone parts and other equipment, primarily through border crossings.

This strategic stance by Hamas signals a prolonged stalemate in negotiations, with the group betting on Israeli political dynamics to shape future outcomes while continuing to bolster its military capabilities.