Gaza war: Definitions of victory and lessons from history

Another example is the Israeli war on Lebanon in July 2006. The country suffered extensive damage, and the conflict concluded with UN Resolution 1701.

This scenario has two dimensions: diplomatically, it involved the Lebanese army's deployment south of the Litani River and Hezbollah's withdrawal north — a goal not yet fully realised and currently subject to confidential talks under US auspices.

In actuality, Hezbollah has only increased its control over Beirut's decision-making institutions and expanded its political clout in Lebanon and beyond. It has done so while also adhering to the "rules of engagement" in southern Lebanon.

Since Hamas assumed control of the Gaza Strip in 2007, Israel has launched five wars on the enclave, marked by air strikes, casualties, and ceasefires. Following each conflict, Hamas declared its victory. In Gaza, Hamas's governance continues, contingent upon compliance with ceasefire terms and established "rules of engagement."

Existential battle

The stakes for this battle are high for both Hamas and Israel. 

The war in Gaza is a welcome distraction for Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu as he faces domestic opposition and legal prosecution. His political and personal fate seems inextricably linked to the outcome of this war.

The Hamas attack shattered the view that Israel could provide safety and security for its own citizens. The scale of the attack was unprecedented since 1948 and challenged Israel's image as a 'safe haven' for Jews.

For Hamas, the situation is equally grave.

Netanyahu has vowed to dismantle Hamas's structure and restore Israel's deterrence. Israel's aggression on Gaza has slaughtered 20,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and around 1.3 million have been displaced. 

Approximately 60% of the Gaza Strip has been destroyed, with reconstruction costs estimated to reach $40bn. The campaign has also led to significant casualties among Hamas leaders and members, tying the fate of the organisation closely to the outcome of this war.

Final phase

As it seems that the final phase of this war could be nearing, both Netanyahu and Hamas know the outcome could determine their respective futures.

Netanyahu will likely face court proceedings and investigations after the war. For Hamas, the outcome of this conflict could result in the emergence of a "new Hamas."

But no matter the outcome, both sides will rush to claim victory. Any notable failures or losses will be downplayed as merely a "setback" in a conflict that has spanned decades and will likely continue for many more.