In an interview with The New York Times, Abu Marzouk, a senior member of Hamas’s political wing said, “If it was known that what’s happening would happen, then there wouldn’t have been October 7,” acknowledging that the immense destruction in the Strip makes supporting the attack nearly impossible.
Disagreements within Hamas
The New York Times noted that it is unclear to what extent Abu Marzouk’s statements reflect the Hamas leadership’s stance, or if it is a move aimed at influencing negotiations with Israel. However, his statements indicate growing disagreements among the organization’s leaders, particularly in light of the increasing frustration of Gaza residents over the heavy toll of the war.
Trying to Maximize Profits in Negotiation
Abu Marzouk likened the terrorist organization to a rookie fighting Mike Tyson, and simply surviving is considered a victory in his eyes.
Contrary to previous Hamas statements, which claimed that “resistance weapons are not a matter for negotiation,” Abu Marzouk noted a willingness to negotiate the future of the organization’s weapons arsenal. This is an unusual statement that may represent a shift in Hamas’s position, or at least an attempt to establish a new bargaining position.
The senior official also addressed the hostage deal, expressing willingness to extend the first phase of the deal in exchange for the release of additional hostages, but clarified that Hamas will demand a higher price for each hostage.
