Hamas dissolution of Gaza government is a trick to keep weapons, expert warns

Hamas's recent announcement regarding the dissolution of its government is a strategic maneuver designed to preserve its weaponry and underlying control in Gaza, according to Palestinian affairs expert Col. (Res.) Dr. Moshe Elad. Speaking on the 103FM radio show "Five in the Evening," Elad characterized the move as a "trick" intended to deceive international actors.

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The bottom line is that this is pulling the wool over everyone's eyes. There is nothing real here, especially for us.

"The intention is obviously mostly public, to pretend as though they have no interest in the current government," Elad explained. He elaborated that Hamas is shedding its governance role as a substitute for relinquishing its weapons, arguing that by holding onto its arms, Hamas will retain its ability to rule. Elad believes that no alternative government will effectively fill the vacuum Hamas is creating, reinforcing his view that this is a calculated deception.

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The intention is obviously mostly public, to pretend as though they have no interest in the current government.

Elad also expressed strong reservations about the proposed Board of Peace and the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG), which is intended to replace Hamas's rule. He warned that the Americans are underestimating the complexities and potential pitfalls of their involvement. The expert stated that the international council lacks genuine authority, power to issue decrees, or enforce anything, including the crucial collection of weapons.

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When someone is told to give up their main asset, they say, 'I will give up something else instead.' They are being told to give up their weapons, so instead, they supposedly give up their governance.

Despite its purported dissolution, Elad asserts that Hamas is actively strengthening its forces and recruiting new members within Gaza, even if they lack experience. This demonstrates Hamas's continued resilience and grip on power. He also commented on the reconstruction plans, suggesting that the strategy by Hamas leaders is to delay substantive action. Elad cautioned that American plans for reconstruction, which he believes do not adequately condition Israeli withdrawal or Hamas disarmament, are misguided and could lead to significant trouble.

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The Americans do not understand what kind of trouble they are getting into.