In Gaza, an Opportunity for Hamas' Rivals

Ever since Hamas wrested control of the Gaza Strip in 2007, it has tried to showcase itself more as a legitimate political entity and less as a militant group. Hamas still maintains a militant wing with the Izz al-Deen al-Qassam Brigades, but as it has attempted to focus on its political agenda, rival Salafi-jihadist groups in Gaza have stepped up their militant activities.  

These groups are too weak to meaningfully threaten or undermine Hamas, but they will attempt to weaken Hamas by prolonging the current crisis and by strengthening their networks. Well aware of the threat posed by unchecked jihadist activity, Israel will continue to attack Hamas, specifically its militant wing, but only to the point of weakening the group. Israel knows that without Hamas, Gaza could descend into chaos, with several jihadist groups vying for supremacy.