Israel’s Longest War Fails to Destroy Hamas, Group Declares Victory and Israeli Defeat
Israel’s year-long war with Hamas has so far failed to destroy the group, despite inflicting devastating losses. Instead, Hamas is framing the recent ceasefire agreement as a victory for itself and a failure for Israel.
As part of the deal, Israel will release captive Palestinians held in jails, while Hamas will release Israeli soldiers held captive since October 7. The ceasefire also paves the way for future negotiations, which could lead to a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and a permanent ceasefire.
Hamas senior political member Osama Hamdan hailed the agreement, saying it achieved all of the group’s goals and reflected the will of the Palestinian people. The group’s main negotiator, Khalil Al Hayya, praised the war as an “inspiration” for future generations, while the Al Qassam Brigades, the group’s armed wing, declared Israel’s failure to achieve its war goals.
However, some Israeli ministers and lawmakers, including Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and Far-right Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, have labeled the deal as a “catastrophe” and “surrender.” Ben Gvir, in particular, has accused the government of surrendering to Hamas.
The ceasefire comes after Israel’s most severe bombardment campaign in Gaza’s history, which killed tens of thousands of Palestinians and displaced hundreds of thousands more. Israel has also suffered heavy losses, including the killing of Hamas leadership and the destruction of its infrastructure.
Despite the devastation, Hamas has continued to replenish its ranks, recruiting almost as many new militants as it has lost. The group’s ability to do so is attributed to the perpetual occupation and violence in Gaza, which creates fertile ground for recruitment.
The US has cautioned that Hamas cannot be defeated by a military campaign alone, and that a clear alternative and a post-conflict plan for the Palestinians are necessary to prevent the group’s growth. Israel’s ultimate goal is to destroy Hamas, but the group appears unconcerned, indicating its cadres will play a role in rebuilding the devastated enclave.