Former US military intelligence officer, Scott Ritter, described the ceasefire between Hamas and Israel as a blessing for Palestinians and Israelis alike.

Pointing out that this truce will allow the exchange of prisoners, the entry of humanitarian aid, and the calm of the conflict.

He added: “The ceasefire, which was negotiated between Israel and Hamas and mediated by Qatar, was mutually agreed upon between the two parties, and no one should be deceived into thinking that this was anything less than a mere victory for Hamas. Israel has taken a very aggressive stance and, given its stated goal of destroying Hamas as an organization, it will not agree to a ceasefire under any circumstances.

Ritter continued, saying: “On the other hand, Hamas has made one of its primary goals the start of the current round of fighting with Israel, by releasing Palestinian prisoners, especially women and children, held by Israel. In light of this, the ceasefire represents an important victory for Hamas, and a humiliating defeat for Israel.”

He added: “Israel’s signing of the ceasefire constitutes the surest indication so far that things are not well with regard to its attack on Hamas.”

Ritter pointed out, “This result should not be a surprise to anyone. When Hamas launched its attack on Israel, on October 7, it began implementing a plan that had been in preparation for years. The meticulous attention to detail, which was evident in the Hamas operation, underscored the fact that the movement was studying the Israeli intelligence and military forces arrayed against it, and revealing weaknesses that were later exploited.”

Source: Sama News