Omni-Balancing the Case of Hamas and the Syrian Regime

Abstract

The relationship between Hamas and the Syrian regime is one of the most controversial in the Middle East. Despite some historical hostility and ideological differences, they enjoyed a good relationship prior to the outbreak of the Syrian revolution. That changed the relationship radically, leaving it unclear as to where it would go. This paper aims to explain the changing nature of the relationship between the Syrian regime and Hamas, using Omnibalancing theory to explain both the conduct of regime in the global south, such as Syria’s and that of non-state actors, like Hamas, illustrated by the evolving relationship between Hamas and the Syrian regime. Thus, this paper hopes to explain how the two parties moved from rapprochement to the complete breakdown of relations.