Why Israel’s 11-year closure didn’t topple Hamas

Ismail Haniyah, Head of Hamas politburo

Shlomi Eldar writes in Al Monitor, “June 15 marks the 11th anniversary of Israel’s land, sea and air blockade of the Gaza Strip, imposed after Hamas took power there in 2007. On June 10, the Israeli Security Cabinet conducted its first-ever discussion of a possible accommodation with Hamas. Over the past decade, Israel has received various proposals through different channels for easing the harsh economic crisis created by the siege in return for a long-term cease-fire by the Palestinians.”

“However, Israel ignored the offers and tried to deter Hamas with the use of force — a method that repeatedly proved ineffective. This assumption regarding the use of force dragged Israel into three widespread military operations — Cast Lead in 2008-2009, Pillar of Defense in 2012 and Protective Edge in 2014 — eroded its international standing and failed to secure peace for the residents of southern Israel. Did anyone truly believe that Israel could seal off the Gaza Strip and its 2 million residents without incurring security, humanitarian and international costs? Israel chose to exert economic pressure on Hamas — except for allowing humanitarian aid to reach the Strip — based on the mistaken assumption that the movement would quickly collapse and be forced to give up its control. However, a measure that was supposed to last for days or several weeks turned into a permanent policy.”…

“So what made Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu decide that the time had come for a deal? It turns out that Israel — like what the politicians in Jerusalem usually say about Hamas — only understands the language of force….one thing is certain: The Cabinet ministers already understand that Israel cannot seal off and starve 2 million Palestinians. Unfortunately, they only started considering logical measures when their backs were to the wall.” (more…)