Islamist groups in Middle East will emerge from Gaza war weakened
by Jason Burke International security correspondent from World news | The Guardian on (#6TM43)
Hamas, Hezbollah and other militia are enfeebled - but Palestine is likely to stay at forefront of global politics
The ceasefire due to come into force on Sunday, barring a major last-minute problem, will cement massive and rapid changes across the Middle East and may seal a significant defeat for the Islamist militant groups that have been powerful actors in the region for years.
Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon and assorted Shia Muslim militia in Iraq and Syria will all emerge from the conflict considerably weakened. Only the Houthis in Yemen are stronger - though this may not last. The Islamic State remains a shadow of its former self.
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