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Source: http://washingtoninstitute.org/templateC05.php?CID=2982
Within Hamas, Hardline Militants Calling Shots in Gaza
[Washington Institute for Near East Policy] Matthew Levitt - Discussion of moderates and radicals almost invariably invites well-meaning efforts to engage with the former to further a split with the latter. In Hamas' case, this approach is counterproductive; on issues relevant to U.S. policy, there are no substantive divisions between the two groups, only tactical differences. Efforts to engage with any part of Hamas will ensure the erosion of confidence within the PA, further diminishing long-term prospects for real diplomatic progress. The emergence of Gaza's hardline Hamas leadership, closely affiliated with the military wing, provides context not only for Hamas' decision to terminate the ceasefire and resume rocket attacks against Israeli civilian communities, but also for the Israeli decision to strike back hard. As the international community attempts to craft an enforceable ceasefire, a key prerequisite for success will be to weaken the militant Hamas leadership currently calling the shots in Gaza.