"One Short Statement Reveals: Netanyahu Still Accepts Hamas as Gaza's Governing Power" Amir Tibon. Haaretz. Key Points

Amir Tibon.

Key Points from Amir Tibon’s Haaretz Article

1. Netanyahu’s Contradiction on Hamas

Despite Netanyahu's repeated promises to destroy Hamas, recent events suggest a tacit acceptance of the group's governing role in Gaza.

His latest statement following a chaotic hostage release reinforced Hamas’s authority rather than undermining it.

2. Hamas Ensured Hostage Safety, Not Israel

The hostage release process turned chaotic when a mob of Gazan civilians surrounded the captives.

Instead of Israeli forces ensuring their safety, Hamas militants intervened and protected the hostages.

This undermines Israel’s claim that it is eliminating Hamas’s operational control in Gaza.

3. Netanyahu’s Statement Recognized Hamas’s Role

Instead of downplaying Hamas's role or focusing on Israel's efforts, Netanyahu’s statement implicitly acknowledged Hamas as the governing power in Gaza.

His words suggested that, despite the war, Hamas still has the ability to enforce order and make crucial decisions.

4. Reinforcing Hamas’s Power Instead of Dismantling It

Netanyahu's approach, instead of weakening Hamas, seems to have reinforced its legitimacy.

Hamas remains the central player in negotiating hostage deals and maintaining order in Gaza, even under heavy Israeli military pressure.

This raises questions about Israel’s actual strategy in Gaza—whether it is truly eliminating Hamas or simply managing the conflict.

5. Political and Strategic Implications

This incident may further damage Netanyahu’s credibility, both domestically and internationally.

If Israel cannot prevent Hamas from controlling key aspects of Gaza’s governance, Netanyahu’s war objectives may appear unachievable.

Critics might argue that Netanyahu is prioritizing his political survival over genuine efforts to dismantle Hamas.

This analysis suggests that Israel's strategy in Gaza is facing serious contradictions—militarily trying to defeat Hamas while politically engaging with it, even if indirectly.

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