According to political researcher Laila Surat, the Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank are all in favor of the Islamic Resistance Movement, Hamas. They see Hamas as a historic victory over Israel and are not bothered by Western criticism.
The Al-Aqsa Flood Operation
Surat explains that Palestinians view the Al-Aqsa Flood operation as a response to the daily attacks they face and the history of occupation. The continuous bombing of Gaza and other places has damaged Israel's image, as well as the image of its Western allies and Arab nations that have relations with it.
Hamas' Development and Identity
Since 2013, Hamas has evolved under the leadership of Yahya Sinwar. The movement now speaks on behalf of all Palestinians, regardless of their political or religious affiliations.
Hamas' Relations with Egypt
After the coup in Egypt in 2013, Hamas re-evaluated its strategy and prioritized building good relations with Egypt, despite their opposition to the Muslim Brotherhood. This cooperation was beneficial for both parties, as Egypt sought to secure Sinai's security. As a result, Egypt removed Hamas from its list of terrorist organizations.
Hamas' Separation from Palestinian Institutions
Hamas decided to distance itself from the official Palestinian institutions and allowed the Palestinian Authority to form the government alone. Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar opposed the idea of a small state in Gaza and supported a reconciliation agreement with the Fatah movement in 2017.
The Return Marches and Hamas' Rise
The return marches forced Israel to make concessions to Hamas, leading to increased aid for the movement. Hamas also aimed to unite all Palestinian factions under a common banner. The Saif Al-Quds operation in 2021 further solidified Hamas' role as a defender of Al-Aqsa Mosque and brought together various Palestinian factions in a common struggle.
The Palestinian Uprising and Hamas' Role
In contrast to previous uprisings, the current Palestinian uprising is inclusive, with the Palestinian flag replacing the Hamas flag on the Al-Qassam Brigades' website. Hamas spokesperson Abu Ubaida emphasized the unity of Gaza, Jerusalem, the West Bank, and Palestinians of 1948 in their resistance against Israel.
The Israeli Political Project and Hamas' Rise
Surat suggests that the idea of Israel deliberately favoring the rise of Hamas should be reconsidered. The support for Hamas is not solely due to Israeli strategy but also a response to settlement expansion, attacks against Palestinians, and the desecration of holy sites. Hamas' rise should be seen as a reflection of the weakening Israeli political project.
