The Israeli defense establishment reported overnight (Saturday to Sunday) growing tension between Hamas leadership in Gaza and Hamas abroad — which, according to a senior security official, creates a “unique window of opportunity” to advance a hostage release deal, as reported by journalist Nir Dvori.
According to the source, Hamas is under heavy pressure, its control on the ground is weakening, and it seeks to promote a deal — but is trying to improve its bargaining position ahead of signing.
“It depends on how flexible the political echelon will be,” said the official. “If there is no deal — we will need to resort to a military resolution.”
Hamas Begins to Lose Control
Hamas is effectively losing control in several areas of the Gaza Strip, and the pressure from the population in Gaza for a ceasefire is intensifying. The terror organization is struggling to function as a governing body, to provide basic services, and to enforce its authority. A combination of prolonged military operations and the reduction of Hamas’s hold over civilian aid mechanisms is bringing the organization to an unprecedented low point.
The Tensions Within Hamas
In addition, the security official revealed that there are frictions within Hamas leadership, particularly between the Gaza-based leadership and Hamas leaders abroad. This divide — if properly leveraged — could lead to an agreement.
“Now there must be significant American pressure on Qatar to press Hamas,” he emphasized. “The one responsible for the suffering in Gaza is Hamas — it can stop, and then the war will stop.”
