Hamas Considers Giving Up Armed Struggle for Independent Palestinian State
A recent statement by Hamas officials has indicated a potential shift in the militant group’s position regarding armed resistance once morest Israel. The officials suggested that Hamas might abandon its armed struggle if an independent Palestinian state is established in the territories captured by Israel during the 1967 war.
This development comes amidst Israel’s heavy military offensive on the Gaza Strip, where Hamas has been in control. The Palestinian militant group has long called for the destruction of the Jewish state and has rejected previous two-state solution proposals.
However, Basem Naim, a member of Hamas’ political bureau based in Istanbul, stated that the group would be willing to disarm if an independent Palestinian state with its capital in Jerusalem is established, while still preserving the right of return for Palestinian refugees. Naim also mentioned the possibility of integrating Hamas’ armed wing, Al Qassam, into a future national army.
While this signals a potential softening of Hamas’ position, analysts point out that the demand for the return of Palestinian refugees to their ancestral homes in present-day Israel remains a significant obstacle. Efraim Inbar, the president of the Jerusalem Institute for Strategy and Security, argues that this demand would amount to “the destruction of the state of Israel” as it would alter the demographic makeup of the country.
Moreover, some experts view Hamas’ recent declarations as a PR stunt aimed at Western nations. Efraim Inbar suggests that Hamas is attempting to portray itself as the “good guys” in the conflict, while labeling Israel as the “bad guys.” However, he believes that Israel is likely to view these gestures with skepticism.
Mustafa Barghouti, President of the Palestinian National Initiative, acknowledges that if the occupation is removed, there would be no need for Palestinians to resist it. However, the Israeli government has maintained its opposition to a two-state solution, citing security concerns.
Nevertheless, senior Hamas official Khalil al-Hayya, in a recent statement, affirmed the group’s willingness to accept a fully sovereign Palestinian state in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, along with the return of Palestinian refugees as per international resolutions. Al-Hayya also mentioned the possibility of Hamas joining the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) to form a unified government for Gaza and the West Bank.
It is important to note that Hamas has not issued an official statement outlining the concessions mentioned by its officials abroad, and it remains unclear whether these statements align with the thinking of its military wing on the ground in Gaza.
Analysts suggest that these recent developments might have broader implications for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Some even speculate that Hamas’ willingness to disarm and engage in political processes might potentially pave the way for negotiations and a lasting resolution.
However, it should be noted that predictions and recommendations for the industry are highly subjective and dependent on various political, social, and military factors. The future trends related to the themes discussed in this article will largely depend on the actions and policies of the involved parties, as well as the international community.
Image: Chris McGrath/Getty Images
Video: Mustafa Barghouti speaking regarding Hamas and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict
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