The situation in Gaza remains uncertain as Hamas is expected to return four hostages this week, potentially ending the first phase of a deal with Israel. However, Hamas can extend this phase indefinitely by continuing to arrange hostage releases.
For the war to end, Hamas must disarm, send its leaders into exile, and give up civil administration of governance in Gaza. Once these conditions are met, the remaining hostages will be released, and Israel’s military presence in Gaza will cease.
This deal has been on the table since the start of the conflict, with Israel seeking the release of its hostages and Hamas wanting the Israeli leadership to leave Gaza alive. The war is not over until both sides’ fundamental underlying conditions are addressed.
The deadline for the ceasefire is March 8, with no additional hostage releases required after that date. The change in administration in Washington has brought clarity to the situation, but ultimately, both sides have the means to end the conflict.
Hamas’s decision will determine whether the war ends or continues. With the revelation of false claims about a famine and genocide, Israel may be willing to end the war if Hamas is unwilling to compromise.
Source: https://www.commentary.org/seth-mandel/if-hamas-wont-end-the-war-israel-will