Hamas is confident about wielding significant influence in the future despite the ongoing war in Gaza, which has resulted in a high number of casualties. The group believes that its attack on Israel in October achieved its goal of reigniting global concern for the Palestinian cause. Hamas views Israel and the US as intent on deepening the conflict rather than seeking a genuine settlement. The group denies responsibility for civilian deaths during the assault and remains committed to its 2017 political document, which supports a two-state solution.
Hamas leaders have expressed little faith in negotiations for a pause in combat involving the release of captives held by the group. They criticize US and Israeli actions in the region and discredit proposals for a new military force in Gaza comprising troops from various countries, including Arab states. It is unlikely that any Arab nation would participate in supporting policies that subjugate Palestinians, according to Hamas. The group is wary of US-backed efforts to interfere in Palestinian internal discussions and promote specific political figures.
The October 7 attack by Hamas resulted in significant civilian casualties, with international scrutiny and evidence revealing human rights violations by the group. Despite criticism, Western and Arab governments, along with most experts, believe Hamas will remain relevant in the Israel-Palestine conflict. The group continues to express opposition to proposed solutions and remains determined to resist external pressure and interference in intra-Palestinian discussions.
Hamas leaders believe Israel’s rightward shift in politics is radical and converting the conflict into a religious one, making a resolution harder to achieve. They question whether the US will maintain support for Israel, given potential dangers to US interests in the region. Hamas sees the conflict not as one between Hamas and Israel but between Palestinians and Israel and emphasizes that the goal is to resist occupation and secure Palestinian rights.
The Hamas leaders have discussed their willingness to be part of a new Palestinian regime that includes various factions and promotes unity among Palestinians. They suggest that Hamas is open to negotiations and to a two-state solution, despite skepticism from external observers. The group’s ability to govern and lead as part of a Palestinian state is seen as essential for its political relevance in the future.
Hamas’s openness to negotiation and political participation should be taken seriously by international actors, according to experts. However, the road to peace and stability in the region will require significant shifts in the policies and attitudes of Israel, the US, and Palestinian leadership. The US will need to reconsider its unconditional support for Israel’s war aims and actions and take a more balanced approach to advance a lasting peace agreement in the Israel-Palestine conflict.
