Institute Launches Israel-Hamas War Frequently Asked Questions Page
Institute offers recommendations on U.S. policy and Gaza governance
Washington, DC - In advance of President Joe Biden’s Oval Office speech tonight, The Washington Institute has launched a Frequently Asked Questions page based on its recent publications to address key issues arising from the October 7, 2023 terrorist attack by Hamas, the deadliest in Israeli history.
The webpage covers:
- What is Hamas and what does it believe?
- What is the history of the Israel-Hamas relationship?
- Why now?
- What is the nature of collaboration between Hamas and Iran?
- What are Israel’s objectives?
- Will the war expand?
- What is the regional response?
- What can the United States do?
- Who will rule Gaza?
The Institute previously issued a statement, “Hamas Attacks: A Turning Point for U.S. Policy,” that says “[t]he October 7 terrorist attacks by Hamas against Israel represent a turning point that should bring home oft-overlooked realities about the Middle East and compel U.S. policymakers to rethink preconceptions about the region and America's role and interests in it.”
The statement highlights the importance of restoring Israel’s deterrent power as a prerequisite for any hope for Middle East peace, and the urgency of confronting the integrated, Iran-led threat network of which Hamas and Hezbollah are critical parts. “Taken together, this is a complex mission that will involve all aspects of U.S. national power—diplomatic, military, economic, ideological—over a long period of time,” it says. Read the full statement.
The Institute has also published a proposal for the “day-after” the end of Hamas rule in Gaza, stating: “The situation demands the establishment of an interim administration to run Gaza until the Palestinian Authority is able to assume that role.” Read the full proposal.