Hamas left in a tight spot as Iran’s betrayal becomes evident

In a surprising turn of events, it has been revealed that even Israel was caught off guard by the heinous attack on October 7. Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has accused Hamas of failing to provide any prior warning, while Hizbollah fighters near the border were reportedly not on alert. A Hizbollah commander described the situation as waking up to a war, highlighting the lack of communication and coordination among these groups. It seems that even among thieves, there is no honor.

This incident marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict, as Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has informed Hamas that while Iran will continue to offer political and moral support, it will not directly intervene. With Iran’s significant financial backing of approximately $100 million per year, some may argue that they have already done enough. Furthermore, Iran has encouraged its network of militias and terrorist groups to target Israel, showcasing the indirect methods they employ to cause harm.

However, without Iran’s assistance, the destruction of Hamas, responsible for inflicting brutality on the people of Israel, may be inevitable. The question arises whether Hamas anticipated this response and the limitations of support from their partners in the so-called “axis of evil.” Even more crucially, would it have made a difference? These terrorists are driven by fanatical ideologies, seeking to hinder regional normalization and destroy an independent country.

In terms of a military solution, it is imperative for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to swiftly neutralize Hamas. The West can aid this effort by providing humanitarian assistance and evacuating the injured while the IDF focuses on eliminating the terrorists. Fortunately, there are US and UK hospital ships and helicopters near the Gaza Strip, ready to assist in this endeavor. However, the true challenge lies in winning the peace and establishing long-term stability in the region. This task falls upon the shoulders of politicians and diplomats in Washington, London, Riyadh, Doha, Tehran, and Tel Aviv.

Nevertheless, these efforts will unfold against the backdrop of Hamas’s failure. The group has failed to incite the Middle East as they desired, with little chance of further escalation at this stage. Surprisingly, the Arab world seems to be turning against Hamas, even among its natural supporters of the Palestinian cause. The merciless and drug-fueled hyper-violence carried out by Hamas has caused unease and concern among many.

This situation presents an opportunity for a potential solution that includes two states, ensuring security and prosperity for both nations. It appears more likely now than before the events of October 7. The time calls for resolute leadership from the Western world, rather than the disheartening scenes witnessed in Westminster. This is the moment for figures like David Cameron and even Tony Blair to rectify past mistakes in the Middle East.

If other groups such as ISIS and Hizbollah realize that Iran will no longer support their acts of terror, it leaves them in a precarious position. While the direct conflict between Israel and Hamas may reach a quicker resolution than anticipated, its far-reaching implications cannot be overlooked.

Expand your perspective with the award-winning journalism of The Telegraph. Try it free for one month, and then enjoy a year’s subscription for just $9 with our exclusive US offer.