Prof. Kobi Michael: Unfortunately, this is the very troubling situation that any place we are leaving, after occupying and clearing it, Hamas goes back.

While it was unlikely the Israeli military would be able to entirely eliminate Hamas’ presence in the enclave, it was possible to end the militant group’s control over Gaza.

Israel’s intensified operations in Gaza are likely to be at least in part driven by a bid to put pressure on Hamas amid negotiations for a cease-fire deal.

The interview took place on NBC NEWS on July 11, 2024.