Gaza's ticking clock: Hamas illustrating it can reorganize itself despite war setbacks - analysis - Seth J. Frantzman

 

by Seth J. Frantzman

Each day that goes by is a day that Hamas has to reconstitute itself and assert control.

 

Palestinian terrorists stand guard on the day that hostages held in Gaza since the deadly October 7, 2023 attack, are handed over to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), as part of a ceasefire and hostages-prisoners swap deal between Hamas and Israel, in Khan Yunis, southern Gaza Str

(photo credit: REUTERS/Ramadan Abed)

 

As Hamas continues to re-assert itself in Gaza it is showing that it can organize itself again.

This is important because it was unclear when the war ended whether Hamas would return quickly to control Gaza or whether the area would become chaotic. What has been seen so far is evidence that Hamas is still well-organized. 

This means that the clock is ticking in Gaza. Each day that goes by is a day that Hamas has to reconstitute itself and assert control.

Hamas uses various methods to do this. It uses executions as well as other forms of mafia-like coercion.

Every day brings more evidence of this through videos and accounts from Gaza. For instance, videos show Hamas murdering dissidents and also calling people in for interrogations. 

Palestinian terrorists stand guard on the day that hostages held in Gaza since the deadly October 7, 2023 attack, are handed over to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), as part of a ceasefire and hostages-prisoners swap deal between Hamas and Israel, in Khan Yunis, southern Gaza Str (credit: REUTERS/Ramadan Abed)

There appears to be little evidence that people are resisting Hamas rule. In fact, they appear resigned to it. They appear to accept that this is what will happen in the future. However, they do not appear to be celebrating either.

This is important because it illustrates that Hamas is neither able to galvanize major street demonstrations in its favor nor push people into defiance.

Uncertainty among Palestinians in Gaza 

Gaza is a society of around 2 million people. Around half are under age 18. It is a young society, and most of the people have been displaced several times during the war. Many are traumatized. They may wonder whether peace will return. This uncertainty hangs over Gaza. 

The international community is now exploring how to fulfill aspects of the Trump plan.

This third week in October will be crucial. Hamas is expected to hand over more bodies of hostages. If it continues to appear sincere it will get more time on the clock. 

Seth J. Frantzman

Source: https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-870846

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