Hamas seeks to secure a ceasefire, allowing it to rebuild its military and maintain political control in Gaza, resembling Hezbollah’s governance in Lebanon. Proposals for Palestinian Authority oversight may not effectively hinder Hamas’ influence, which remains resolute in maintaining its grip on power. Israel’s military action is essential to dismantle Hamas and ensure long-term stability in Gaza.
Hamas currently aims to secure a ceasefire to survive ongoing hostilities, allowing it to rebuild its military infrastructure and solidify political dominance in Gaza. The organization is considering a governance model reminiscent of Hezbollah’s administration in pre-war Lebanon, where an internationally recognized government exists but actual military control remains with Hamas, enhancing its ability to wage war against Israel at will. Failure to eliminate Hamas could result in Gaza evolving into a terror state akin to Lebanon’s situation.
Proposals from nations such as Egypt to establish Palestinian Authority oversight in Gaza do not adequately address the complexities involved while Hamas continues its military operations. During a Cairo summit, Egyptian President Fateh El-Sisi affirmed his country’s support for Palestinian statehood and independence, opposing any eviction of Palestinians. However, there are no solid strategies to effectively sideline Hamas while dealing with Gaza’s governance and reconstruction.
Reports suggest that Hamas has expressed willingness to relinquish some control to the Palestinian Authority under pressure from Egypt amid ceasefire negotiations. Notably, Israeli officials have dismissed these claims, indicating that Hamas remains reluctant to give up its territorial control. Despite various discussions, the fundamental reality is that Hamas intends to maintain its authority in Gaza, utilizing any proposed administration as a mere facade for its military ambitions.
The governance model that Hamas appears to adopt aligns closely with Hezbollah’s strategy in Lebanon, where military dominance overshadows the governmental structure. Prior to conflict, Hezbollah exercised profound influence over Lebanon’s security and decisions, acting independently while simultaneously using the Lebanese government for international appearance. Israel’s prior military action against Hezbollah provides a warning that Hamas may aim to mimic this strategy, enabling it to rebuild military strength under a cover of legitimacy.
Should Hamas succeed in implementing this framework, Israel might find its ability to respond to Hamas’ military activities severely restricted by international outcry associated with intervening against a recognized governing authority, regardless of its true power dynamics. Thus, allowing Hamas to rearm while maintaining a façade of governance poses significant risks for Israel, as seen in Lebanon.
To counter this potential reality, Israel must consider resuming military operations aiming for complete dismantlement of Hamas’s military capabilities. This includes a comprehensive campaign to eradicate Hamas’ command structure and military assets, ensuring it does not remain the dominant power in Gaza. Furthermore, a sustained Israeli presence in Gaza could facilitate ongoing counterterrorism operations critical for preventing any resurgence of military threats.
Long-term Israeli operational freedom must be preserved to thwart future terror activities, making it possible for a moderate governance structure to be proposed only once Hamas is neutralized. In conclusion, without dismantling Hamas, any interim governance arrangement will fail to alter Gaza’s power dynamics significantly, perpetuating a cycle of violence and instability. A comprehensive strategy is vital for any lasting change that can ensure a sustainable future for Gaza and its populace.
In summation, Hamas poses a significant threat to regional stability while pursuing a governance model akin to Hezbollah’s in Lebanon. The need for Israel to undertake decisive military actions against Hamas remains paramount to prevent Gaza from evolving into a terror state. Only by completely dismantling Hamas’ military presence and ensuring operational freedom can Israel facilitate a viable governance structure for Gaza. Failure to do so risks the area’s transformation into a focal point for terrorist activities that could threaten Israel’s security in the long term.
Original Source: www.algemeiner.com
