Israel's divide-and-rule policy in the Gaza Strip has put the Hamas leadership in a trap. Hamas now understands that they are at a critical stage that brings them closer to the moment when they will have to make a decision.
If Hamas enters the event and joins the conflict openly and officially, it is liable to suffer a military blow that will include the elimination of its operatives. On the other hand, the organization is putting its prestige as a fighting resistance organization in check and risks eroding the legitimacy of a single regime.