Senior Hamas Leader Reappears in Video, Raising Concerns in Israel

PSPalestinia|

A newly released video has shown senior Hamas commander Hussein Fayyad, contradicting earlier Israeli claims of his elimination. The footage features Fayyad asserting that Hamas has emerged victorious following the protracted conflict in Gaza, which has lasted over a year. Israeli officials are expressing concerns about the reappearance of Fayyad, a key figure in the militant group, who has been accused of orchestrating significant attacks against Israel.

The announcement of the ceasefire last Saturday has allowed Hamas operatives to appear more prominently in Gaza, leading to a display of their resilience. Reports indicate that despite extensive Israeli military efforts to dismantle Hamas, the group remains firmly entrenched in Gaza, continuing to control local security forces and administrate essential services.

Following the ceasefire, Hamas has re-established security across the region, deploying police to prevent looting and restore order. This has been a marked change from conditions during the conflict, when Israeli airstrikes had kept Hamas operatives largely off the streets. Ismail Al-Thawabta, from the Hamas-run media office, stated that approximately 700 police were assigned to protect humanitarian aid deliveries.

Residents and analysts suggest that Hamas’s control over Gaza represents a significant challenge for long-term peace negotiations and the implementation of a permanent ceasefire, raising questions about the effectiveness of Israeli military objectives in the region.

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