Hamas’ main goal has been to ensure its survival and control of Gaza

Asher Fredman: Every time Hamas saw American pressure on Israel, it gave Hamas hope that it would survive, and only led to further ‘hardening of its heart’, making a hostage deal more difficult. A US-led maximum pressure campaign on Tehran, or even joint US-Israel strikes on Iran, could reduce the fear of Iranian arms smuggling into Gaza.

The interview took place on the channel on January 5, 2025.