In a stark revelation, experts warn that Israel’s demand for the complete dismantling of Hamas may be “nearly impossible.” As Prime Minister Netanyahu capitalizes on recent military successes in the region, the prospect of a permanent end to the ongoing conflict in Gaza appears more elusive than ever. Associate Professor Tame Kamud, speaking from Belgrade, asserts that Netanyahu’s political momentum will likely push him to hold firm to his original objectives, which revolve around eliminating Hamas—a goal that may not pave the way for lasting peace.

While Hamas has hinted at relinquishing its administrative control in Gaza, the crux of the matter lies in their arsenal of weapons. Kamud suggests that technical solutions exist, such as integrating these arms into a reformed Palestinian security apparatus or placing them under international oversight. However, the heart of the issue remains: Israel’s insistence on Hamas’s complete disappearance from Palestinian political life. This demand, Kamud argues, could act as a significant barrier to any potential negotiations.

Hamas may be willing to step back from governance, but its ideological presence as a resistance movement cannot be erased. The history of Palestinian politics shows that peace requires engagement with all factions, including those deemed adversaries. As the conflict escalates, the urgency for an inclusive peace process grows. Without dialogue that encompasses all parties, including Hamas, the cycle of violence is likely to continue unabated.

As the world watches, the stakes could not be higher. The call for a comprehensive peace strategy is more critical than ever, with the ramifications of failure echoing across the region and beyond. The time for decisive action is now.