Hamas’s Strategy in Gaza: The Danger of a Hezbollah Model

Hamas aims to maintain military control in Gaza similar to Hezbollah’s in Lebanon by securing a ceasefire and consolidating power. Israel must counter this strategy, especially against proposals from Egypt and others that might empower Hamas. The focus remains on ensuring complete dismantling of Hamas’s military power and securing operational freedom for Israeli forces in Gaza.

In the current conflict, Hamas aims to maintain its military control over Gaza by securing a ceasefire, allowing them to rebuild their strength analogous to Hezbollah’s prior dominance in Lebanon. Israel must counteract this strategy, especially against Egypt’s inclination to facilitate Hamas’s survival. The fundamental concern is that Hamas will utilize any ceasefire to consolidate power politically and militarily in Gaza, furthering their agenda against Israel.

Hamas’s ambition includes establishing a governance model akin to that of Hezbollah, characterized by an internationally recognized government that superficially appears authoritative while actual military control remains with Hamas. This structure would enable the group to regroup and potentially launch renewed assaults against Israel when the circumstances favor them, claiming to have survived an extensive conflict.

Various proposals surrounding Gaza, including Egypt’s recommendation for an interim administration led by technocrats, threaten to replicate Lebanon’s hazardous state of affairs. These suggestions surface amidst ongoing military operations in Gaza, suggesting dangerous outcomes for Israel’s security and territorial integrity.

During a summit on March 4 aimed at establishing an alternative to President Trump’s Gaza plan, Egyptian President Fateh El-Sisi reiterated his nation’s stance against the eviction of Palestinians and voiced support for a Palestinian state. His comments highlighted Egypt’s advocacy for a temporary administration in Gaza, managed by independent technocrats while the Palestinian Authority waits for reinstatement.

Egypt’s recent roadmap suggests an interim rule backed by a coalition of various states, but lacks clarity on sidelining Hamas or financing rebuilding efforts. Reports indicate Hamas has tentatively accepted such arrangements, revealing their intent to retain power while adapting to external pressures. Despite claims of shifting control to the Palestinian Authority, steadfast evidence indicates Hamas aims to continue its governance.

Hamas’s model mirrors Hezbollah’s framework in Lebanon, where the latter maintained military authority over a nominal government. Hezbollah’s historical grip on Lebanon facilitated its agenda, leveraging its military might and international legitimacy, while continuing its arms buildup. This strategy poses significant risks, as Hamas may execute similar tactics in Gaza, covertly enhancing its capabilities under the guise of a recognized government.

Should Israel allow this to transpire unfettered, Hamas could procure resources to enhance its military without facing immediate repercussions. In such scenarios, international scrutiny could prevent Israel from addressing Hamas effectively, reminiscent of previous conflicts where sovereignty claims facilitated terrorist operations. The repercussions of this situation would be profoundly detrimental to regional stability.

Thus, Israel must consider renewing military engagements in Gaza to obliterate Hamas’s political and military apparatus. Total destruction of Hamas is imperative to foster a viable governance model capable of building trust within Gaza. To this end, Israel’s operational autonomy within Gaza needs affirmation, allowing for uncompromised counter-terrorism operations to deter rearmament efforts by Hamas and Iran, until a sustainable and secure autonomy structure is achievable.

In conclusion, Hamas’s strategy to establish control akin to Hezbollah’s dominance in Lebanon presents an ongoing challenge for Israel. The establishment of a façade government while maintaining actual military authority threatens Israel’s security. Israel must act decisively to prevent Hamas from exploiting ceasefires to rebuild its forces, thus ensuring a sustainable and secure governance framework in Gaza that can deter terrorism.

Original Source: besacenter.org