Hamas remains the dominant Palestinian power in Gaza even after 15 months of Israeli bombardment, holding sway in displacement camps and refusing to surrender.

The Government of Israel and Hamas agreed to a ceasefire, with hostages to be released and humanitarian aid to enter Gaza, potentially ending the 15-month conflict. Following extensive negotiations, a truce between the parties has been established in alignment with the framework previously presented by the US in May.

Israel’s national security minister Ben Gvir claimed he has repeatedly foiled a hostage and ceasefire deal with Hamas over the past year as he threatened to quit the Benjamin Netanyahu cabinet over a fresh deal being brokered by the US.