Hamas' Unusual Threshold for Victory

Hamas operates under a distinctly low threshold for victory, primarily aiming for survival rather than destruction of its adversaries. In stark contrast, Israel, represented by its leadership, pursues a high threshold for victory, seeking the total elimination of Hamas. This peculiar dynamic results in an atypical situation where, despite facing severe material losses and widespread devastation in Gaza, Hamas does not consider itself defeated. Unlike conventional wars, where significant material loss typically leads to surrender, Hamas's interpretation of victory allows it to continue resisting, despite the overwhelming evidence of its imminent defeat. This divergence in thresholds for victory leads to a unique and complex conflict where one side perceives itself as winning despite the evident destruction and high casualties.