A division within Hamas, the Palestinian organization, poses significant challenges to President Donald Trump’s proposed peace plan aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in Gaza. According to a report by the Wall Street Journal, tensions between Hamas’ political leadership and its armed wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, complicate negotiations regarding the release of Israeli hostages and disarmament.
On September 29, 2023, Hamas’ diplomatic leadership tentatively expressed willingness to release Israeli hostages in alignment with Trump’s plan. However, they emphasized the need for further discussions on critical issues, particularly disarmament and the release of nearly 50 Israeli hostages, including both living individuals and the remains of those killed. These demands are seen as contentious within the faction, as many members oppose them outright.
Arab mediators highlighted a distinct divide between Hamas negotiators operating outside of Gaza and the group’s militant wing. While the negotiators are inclined to accept the peace framework with reservations, the armed faction remains firmly against relinquishing its weapons and releasing hostages, as reported by the Journal.
Hamas’ leadership seeks a clear commitment from Israel to withdraw its forces from the Gaza Strip as part of any agreement to release hostages. Khalil Al-Hayya, one of Hamas’ senior negotiators, along with other politburo members, supports the Trump plan despite having significant reservations. However, their influence over the armed wing appears limited, making consensus difficult.
The newly appointed leader of Hamas, Ezzedin al-Haddad, who took over following the death of commanders Yahya and Mohammed Sinwar, has indicated a willingness to compromise, particularly concerning disarmament. Reports suggest he may agree to transfer offensive weapons to Egypt and the United Nations for storage, while insisting on retaining small arms for defensive purposes.
Even if the leadership manages to reach an agreement on disarmament, ensuring compliance among lower-ranking members poses a significant challenge. Many within Hamas could perceive the agreement as akin to surrendering, which may lead to internal dissent.
Hamas’ recent statement regarding the peace plan was notably vague, allowing the organization room to withdraw if necessary conditions are not met. The leadership indicated their “approval to release all prisoners of the occupation… with the provision of appropriate field conditions for carrying out the exchange process.” These “field conditions” refer to the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, a stipulation that remains uncertain.
In reaction to Hamas’ response, Senator Lindsey Graham from South Carolina labeled it as “unfortunately predictable,” noting the lack of disarmament and the requirement to maintain Palestinian control over Gaza. He viewed the response as a rejection of Trump’s “take it or leave it” proposal.
Analysts suggest that Hamas’ statement may be a strategic move to buy time while the group attempts to reconcile its longstanding internal rifts. The conflict escalated nearly two years ago when Hamas executed deadly attacks in southern Israel, abducting approximately 250 individuals.
On the ground, Hamas faces significant operational challenges. The armed wing has suffered considerable losses, including senior leaders and thousands of fighters. New recruits lack adequate training, and Israel’s heightened control over Gaza has strained the group’s communication and coordination efforts. To adapt, Hamas has decentralized command to smaller units that operate independently, relying on explosives and snipers.
The limited control exercised by Haddad and other leaders over these units, coupled with financial constraints affecting salary payments, further complicates the situation within Hamas. As the organization navigates these internal divisions, the prospect of a successful implementation of Trump’s peace plan remains uncertain.
