Hamas

Moscow is supportive of the Palestinian cause, but a key Kremlin figure's removal in July 2025 put the relationship back. A year later, when contact resumed, it was too late to effect change

While the decision to contribute forces to the ISF sends a strong signal about its commitment to stability, there are also huge challenges

Israel's recent assassination of Izz al-Din al-Haddad will do little to sway the group's decision to stick to its guns, which it views as a 'sacred right' and a defence against Israeli-armed gangs

A UN Security Council resolution calls for an international force to ensure Hamas and Israel adhere to the ceasefire terms. But without a political solution, such a mission will likely fail.

Having lost most of its weaponry, fighters, and supply lines, the group can no longer respond as it once did. It no longer cites the right to resist, nor does it seek to impose a deterrent.

Cairo understands that what sounds like a reputation-enhancing regional role is in fact a poisoned chalice

Doha says it will keep up its efforts to secure a ceasefire in Gaza, despite Israel's targeting of Hamas leaders on its soil, but some are doubtful. But is peace even possible at this point?

The White House moved quickly to distance itself from the attack on a key ally in the region, but it's unclear whether the trust can ever be repaired, which bodes badly for hopes of a Gaza ceasefire

Qatar decried the strike as a violation of international law

Donald Trump's Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff drafted a document outlining the main points for a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza. Al Majalla publishes it in full, alongside the response it got from Hamas.