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Hamas Sees Ceasefire/Hostage Agreement as a Victory
(Institute for National Security Studies-Tel Aviv University) Prof. Kobi Michael - From Hamas's perspective, the hostage/ceasefire agreement is a significant achievement and a victory. Hamas has preserved its control of Gaza, as a step toward its goal of taking over the entire Palestinian system. Its ethos of resistance embarrasses the Palestinian Authority, highlights the failure and the futility of the diplomatic path the PA chose over resistance, and strengthens Hamas's political and national standing, which already enjoys greater support than Fatah. The agreement also breathes renewed fighting spirit into Hamas and its leadership. Therefore, even when the residents of Gaza wake up the day after to find Gaza in ruins, with no home to return to, their frustration, anger, and pain won't necessarily translate into protest against Hamas. From Hamas's perspective, the agreement is another crack in the wall of the Palestinian Authority before Hamas eventually captures it from Fatah. Hamas is resolutely continuing its struggle against Israel until the ultimate goal is achieved, even if delayed.