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The Loneliness of Islamic Jihad

(Institute for National Security Studies-Tel Aviv University) Lt.-Col. (ret.) Yohanan Tzoreff - On the third day of fighting in Gaza, Islamic Jihad still finds itself alone. The Palestinian public in Gaza does not feel part of this war and does not show solidarity. Hamas, in a manner far from predictable, does not extend a hand, and in effect makes it easier for Israel to deliver the many blows it deals the PIJ. The elimination of its senior commanders and the extensive destruction of its infrastructure are undoubtedly a severe blow, but Hamas not joining the fighting is perhaps the more painful blow inflicted on Islamic Jihad. Above all, Hamas has no interest in allowing Islamic Jihad to challenge its status as sovereign and define the agenda within Gaza. Israel has achieved the goals it set for itself, removed the threat of Islamic Jihad shooting, hit it hard, and wishes to end the operation. It is certainly not interested in Hamas joining the fighting. Hamas is not interested in this either and is working vigorously with the Egyptians and the Qataris to bring the episode to an end. The writer, a Senior Research Fellow at the Institute for National Security Studies, served as Arab Adviser to the Civil Administration in Gaza and as head of the Palestinian-Arab Division in the Ministry of Intelligence and Strategy.
2022-08-08 00:00:00
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