After seven brutal months of war with Israel, Hamas is still putting up a fight, regrouping in northern Gaza and resuming rocket attacks into Israeli communities. Israel initially made gains but is now facing a grinding struggle against an adaptable insurgency, drawing comparisons to U.S. wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Two members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s War Cabinet have rebelled, demanding detailed postwar plans. They fear a costly re-occupation of Gaza or leaving Hamas in control. Four ways this war might end include a full-scale military occupation, a lighter occupation aided by ‘unicorns,’ a grand bargain involving Arab states, or a deal with Hamas.
Netanyahu has promised a “total victory” to remove Hamas from power, but critics warn of the costs and uncertainties of a prolonged occupation. A lighter occupation plan has been rejected by Arab states, and a grand bargain proposal hinges on Israel committing to Palestinian statehood.
Hamas has proposed a phased agreement to release hostages in exchange for prisoners and a cease-fire, but Netanyahu’s allies may block this deal. Supporters argue it could bring benefits to Israel and prepare for future conflicts.
As the conflict continues, the future remains uncertain, with different factions proposing conflicting solutions. The ongoing violence and political maneuvering highlight the complex challenges facing both Israel and Hamas in finding a resolution to the conflict.