Hamas is prepared for a prolonged conflict in the Gaza Strip and believes it can withstand Israel’s advance long enough to secure a ceasefire, according to sources close to the organization’s leadership. The group has stockpiled weapons, missiles, food, and medical supplies in anticipation of an extended war. Hamas is confident that its thousands of fighters can survive for months in the underground tunnels of Gaza and frustrate Israeli forces with guerrilla tactics. The group hopes that mounting civilian casualties and international pressure will eventually lead to a negotiated settlement, potentially involving the release of Palestinian prisoners. Hamas has also expressed its desire to end the blockade of Gaza, halt Israeli settlement expansion, and address the actions of Israeli security forces at the al-Aqsa mosque. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to wipe out Hamas and rejected calls for a ceasefire. The United States has stated that now is not the time for a general ceasefire but acknowledges the need for pauses in hostilities to provide humanitarian aid. Hamas, with its extensive tunnel network and improved military capabilities, is expected to engage in street-by-street combat to bog down Israeli forces and erode public support for a prolonged conflict. The ability of Israel to eliminate Hamas completely or severely degrade the organization remains uncertain. Despite the ongoing violence, Hamas sees an opportunity to put the issue of Palestinian statehood back on the map and shape the regional equation in a way that serves its interests. The group gained leverage after the failure of the Oslo peace accord and Netanyahu’s refusal to halt Jewish settlement building in the West Bank. Hamas’ attack has also highlighted the importance of engaging with Palestinians for Middle Eastern stability.
Hamas Strategizes Ingenious Traps to Capture Israeli Forces
