Iran's Role in Gaza: A Lifeline for Hamas Amid Trump's Peace Plan
As President Trump's 20-point peace plan for Gaza gains traction, the focus remains on Hamas's response. However, Iran, Hamas's primary benefactor, is largely being overlooked. This article explores Iran's potential role as Hamas's last lifeline and the implications for the region.
Cautious Support for Trump's Peace Plan
Trump's peace plan has garnered "cautious support" from key regional players, including Egypt, Jordan, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar. Even Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has endorsed the plan, a significant achievement given its aim of establishing a Palestinian state. With Hamas given only days to sign off, the focus has shifted to Iran and its largely silent response.
Iran's Troubling Signals
Despite its silence, Iran's actions and statements suggest a different agenda. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshian warned of a path that will "set fire" to the Middle East, hinting that Gaza would continue to be part of that fire. His aim is to buy Iran time to rebuild its military capabilities, relying on Hamas to distract Trump and Netanyahu.
“Trump’s approach to the region is on a path that will ‘set fire’ to the Middle East.” - Iranian President Masoud Pezeshian
Hamas's Strategy and Iran's Needs
Ismail Haniyeh's statements about needing "the blood of women, children and elderly" highlight Hamas's strategy of creating civilian casualties to draw international condemnation against Israel. Iran needs this bloodshed too in its war against Israel. Pezeshian's criticism of civilian deaths in Gaza is viewed as an exploitation of human suffering for Tehran's benefit.
Russia's Potential Role and Distraction
Russia, despite expressing support for Trump's peace efforts, has a history of duplicity. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov's statements are reminiscent of his denials before the invasion of Ukraine. President Vladimir Putin may be seeking to distract the U.S. with the situation in Gaza to provide a breather for his faltering war in Ukraine.
Cutting Off Iran's Lifeline to Hamas
Washington must prevent Iran from providing a lifeline to Hamas. While Israel has effectively sealed off Gaza from arms, the U.S. must cut off funding. The reimposition of snapback sanctions due to Iran's violations of the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action are timely, although Bitcoin and other means of covert funds transfers exist.
The Path to Peace: A Joint Effort
To achieve lasting peace, Hamas and its militant partners must be prevented from influencing Gaza's future governance. This requires a joint effort between the Israel Defense Forces and the International Stabilization Force, as envisioned by Trump's plan. Egypt must also play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of Palestinian civilians, setting aside concerns about permanent displacement.
A Plea for a Peaceful Future
The situation is complex, and compromises are necessary. However, the lives of young Palestinian and Israeli children depend on a successful resolution. If lifelines are to be given, they must be given to those children so they can have a peaceful and war-free future. The conflict must end to allow Gaza to find peace and prosperity.
