What's Happening?
Col. (Ret.) Miri Eisin from the International Institute for Counterterrorism at Reichman University has raised questions about who can effectively pressure Hamas to release Israeli hostages held in Gaza. Eisin suggests that while pressure could come from Egypt or Hamas's own people, the United States does not exert influence over Hamas, limiting its ability to impact the situation. She highlights the complexity of Hamas's structure, noting the differing voices between Hamas leaders in Qatar and those in Gaza, who are actively involved in holding hostages.
Why It's Important?
The issue of hostages held by Hamas is a significant concern for international relations and security in the region. The lack of U.S. influence over Hamas underscores challenges in diplomatic efforts to resolve hostage situations. This situation affects not only the families of hostages but also broader geopolitical dynamics, as countries like Egypt may play a crucial role in negotiations. The division within Hamas complicates potential resolutions, impacting peace efforts and regional stability.
