As the Israel-Hamas conflict enters its tenth month, a significant shift is unfolding behind the scenes. Internal communications obtained by The Associated Press reveal a Hamas leadership grappling with the devastating toll of the war and facing mounting pressure to accept a cease-fire deal.
The War's Toll Reshapes Hamas' Stance
Messages passed between senior Hamas figures in Gaza and the group's exiled leadership in Qatar paint a stark picture of the conflict's impact. These communications, shared by a Middle East official on condition of anonymity, describe heavy losses suffered by Hamas fighters and the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza after months of relentless Israeli offensive operations.
The correspondence suggests a growing rift within Hamas. Some officials are pushing for a quick resolution, while others, including Gaza-based leader Yahya Sinwar, appear more hesitant. Sinwar, who has been in hiding since the war began last October, is believed to be holed up in underground tunnels, potentially disconnected from the full reality of the situation above ground.
A Significant Concession
In a notable shift, Hamas has reportedly dropped its long-standing demand for Israel to commit to ending the war as part of any cease-fire agreement. This concession has injected new life into negotiations mediated by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was quick to attribute this change to military pressure, particularly citing Israel's ongoing offensive in the southern Gaza city of Rafah. However, the true catalysts for Hamas' evolving stance likely encompass a complex mix of factors, including the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and potential pressure from regional allies.
Cautious Optimism and Remaining Challenges
U.S. officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, expressed cautious optimism about the prospects for a cease-fire. They acknowledged awareness of internal divisions within Hamas but stressed that previous promising efforts have fallen through at the last moment.
Significant obstacles remain. Netanyahu's office has stated that "gaps still remain" in the negotiations. He has vowed to continue fighting until Hamas' military and governing capabilities are destroyed, even if hostages are freed.
It's anyone's guess whether these behind-the-scenes shifts can finally bring an end to this devastating war.
* Ynet and AP contributed to this article.