THE FUTURE ROLE OF HAMAS IN A LIBERATED PALESTINE: TO ESTABLISH, DISSOLVE, OR ADAPT?

Abstract

This paper explores the potential political future of Hamas within a liberated Palestine. It examines whether Hamas will be established as the leading governing body of a future Palestinian state as it currently exists, whether Hamas will need to adapt so that its leaders become part of a broader Palestinian government but not constitute the entirety of it, or whether Hamas will be dissolved completely with no existence in a future Palestinian governance structure. Through historical analysis, the study traces Hamas's development from its Muslim Brotherhood origins to its emergence as a resistance movement, examining how its institutional foundations might prepare it for state governance. The research evaluates Hamas's governance experience in Gaza despite extraordinary constraints, analyzing its administrative structures, social service provision, and treatment of women to assess both capabilities and limitations. Particular attention is given to Hamas's balancing of resistance with governance responsibilities, including its educational initiatives and healthcare systems under blockade conditions. The study also examines Hamas's evolution in the international arena, including its relationships with regional actors and Western powers, and its diplomatic capacity as demonstrated through ceasefire compliance. By analyzing both Hamas's accomplishments and shortcomings across these dimensions, this research contributes to understanding what role, if any, Hamas might have in a future Palestinian state that achieves rights and sovereignty without the need for resistance. Key Words: Hamas, Palestinian governance, state-building, resistance-to-governance transition, Islamic political movements, Gaza administration, diplomatic legitimacy, post-liberation scenarios, Muslim Brotherhood evolution, women in Islamic governance, ceasefire compliance, international recognition, political adaptation, comparative liberation movements, Palestinian sovereignty

Date of Award	2025
Original language	American English
Awarding Institution	HBKU College of Islamic Studies