Why a Ceasefire with Hamas Is a Dangerous Illusion

The recently brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hamas offers a temporary halt to the violence, but fails to address the deeper issues sustaining the conflict.

While this “deal” may provide momentary relief for civilians caught in the crossfire, it does not tackle the underlying dynamics that perpetuate hostilities. Hamas’ history of extreme violence, combined with its ideological commitment to Israel’s destruction, makes a ceasefire not only insufficient but potentially harmful. For lasting peace, Hamas must be decisively dismantled.

Hamas has consistently pursued a strategy of violence to achieve its goals, treating diplomacy as an obstacle to its ideological objectives.

Unlike political entities that may embrace dialogue, Hamas is rooted in an uncompromising belief in armed resistance. This ideology is not merely rhetoric; it has been actively demonstrated through decades of attacks, including indiscriminate rocket fire, suicide bombings, and cross-border incursions targeting civilians.

The October 7 attack, the deadliest day in Israeli history, exemplifies the group’s brutality. It was not a spontaneous act, but a meticulously planned operation aimed at causing maximum casualties. Approximately 1,200 Israelis were killed, and hundreds were taken hostage. Such actions underscore Hamas’ willingness to disregard international norms and basic human decency.

These attacks are not isolated incidents. They form part of Hamas’ broader strategy to destabilize the region and undermine any prospects for peace. Its only goal is to eliminate the State of Israel and replace it with an Islamic theocracy. This extremist vision leaves little room for compromise, making any attempts at reconciliation futile.

Ceasefires may offer a temporary reprieve from violence, but history has shown that they often serve as strategic pauses for Hamas to regroup and rearm. Instead of marking progress toward peace, these pauses are used to build tunnels, replenish rocket supplies, and recruit new fighters. This cycle of violence ensures that every ceasefire is merely a prelude to the next escalation.

Moreover, ceasefires risk sending the wrong message. They can be perceived as a reward for violence, reinforcing Hamas’ belief that aggression yields political and strategic gains. This dynamic not only emboldens Hamas, but also undermines Israel’s efforts to secure long-term safety for its citizens. Without question, the horrible concessions Hamas has achieved by taking 250 Israelis hostages will lead them to take more Israeli hostages in the future.

The illusion of peace created by ceasefires can be especially dangerous for the international community, which may mistake temporary calm for genuine progress. Without a comprehensive plan to address Hamas’ capacity for violence, these agreements are little more than stopgap measures that leave the root problem intact.

The absence of a clear strategy for Gaza’s governance and security during ceasefire negotiations further complicates the situation, ensuring that tensions remain high.

Hamas’ violent ideology and actions are incompatible with the principles of coexistence and peace. As long as the group maintains its operational capabilities, the region will remain trapped in an endless cycle of bloodshed. Neutralizing Hamas is not just a matter of Israel’s security, but a necessity for broader regional stability.

Dismantling Hamas involves more than military operations, although these are an essential component. Israel and its allies must target the group’s leadership, weapon stockpiles, and financial networks. Precision strikes can degrade Hamas’ ability to launch attacks, but military measures alone cannot ensure lasting peace.

Politically, the international community must take a firm stance against Hamas, recognizing it as a terrorist organization that thrives on instability. Nations must cut off funding streams and pressure countries that provide sanctuary to Hamas leaders.

Economic development is another critical piece of the puzzle. Poverty and despair create fertile ground for extremism, and Hamas has exploited these conditions to garner support. By investing in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, the international community can provide opportunities that diminish the appeal of radical ideologies.

Additionally, countering Hamas’ propaganda machine is essential. The group relies on a narrative of victimhood and resistance to justify its actions. By promoting moderate voices, and exposing the devastating consequences of Hamas’ policies, a more balanced perspective can take root.

The international community has a crucial role to play in dismantling Hamas and fostering conditions for peace. It must move beyond the simplistic notion that ceasefires are sufficient to end the conflict. Instead, a long-term approach is needed — one that combines military action with diplomatic efforts and humanitarian aid.

Key players, including the United States, the European Union, and Arab states, must work together to isolate Hamas diplomatically and economically.

Neutralizing Hamas is not merely a military objective; it is a prerequisite for peace. By combining targeted operations with efforts to promote economic development and political reform, the region can move toward a future free from the grip of extremism. Only through decisive action can the cycle of violence be broken, paving the way for a brighter and more stable Middle East.

Amine Ayoub, a Middle East Forum fellow, is a policy analyst and writer based in Morocco

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