Is that the strategy of hamas then? They cannot hope to win, or even achieve anything, so they just hurt the people of Gaza and the hostages because of some misguided idea that this makes them feel "strong", whatever that means?

Sadly, I think you're actually right. That that's it.

Something similar could be said of Israeli strategy. They have not achieved anything of note except inflicting a Holocaust against the Palestinians. Perhaps because of some misguided idea that this makes them feel strong.

I think that is why they keep sabotaging the talks that would have seen all the hostages returned by now.

I’m not even sure it’s a “strategy” for anyone. I think it’s just a consequence of being weak and being (or feeling) threatened.

Not unlike bullies. I don’t think bullies make the conscious decision to be that way.