Analysis citing strain between Iran and Hamas, which has been used by some analysts to urge engagement with the Palestinian terror group, is being called into question as evidence emerges challenge both the analysis and its implied diplomatic recommendations. The suggestion had long been treated asun serious due to repeated statements by Hamas leaders emphasizing the closeness between the group and Iran, due to frequent and documented visits to Tehran by Hamas leaders throughout the fall, and due to statements by Iranian leaders about using Hamas to destroy Israel. Nonetheless the heated policy discussion surrounding Israel’s Operation Pillar of Defense reignited controversy over the degree to which Hamas takes direct orders from Iran. New reports in Arabic-language media, however, are now carrying boasts by high-ranking Iranian officials to the effect that Hamas continues to answer to Tehran, and that even if Hamas’s political leaders refused to obey orders from Tehran Hamas’s military echelon would continue to operate per Iranian instructions. The statements follow the publication of satellite images in recent days showing that Iran is rushing to rearm Hamas in the after of Operation Pillar of Defense.

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