One of the central themes of "Decolonizing Palestine" is the dual identity of Hamas as both an armed resistance movement and a governing body. This duality challenges traditional views of liberation movements and highlights the complexities of maintaining both roles simultaneously. Sen's analysis provides a deeper understanding of how Hamas navigates these identities and what it means for the Palestinian struggle.

Sen argues that decolonization is not a singular event but an ongoing process that involves both colonial and postcolonial elements. This theme is crucial for understanding the Palestinian struggle and offers a new perspective on liberation movements. By examining the psychological and empirical aspects of this process, Sen provides a comprehensive analysis that challenges conventional wisdom.

The book is based on extensive ethnographic research conducted in various locations, including Gaza, the West Bank, Israel, and Egypt. These insights provide a rich, detailed understanding of the Palestinian struggle and the role of Hamas. Sen's ethnographic approach adds depth to the analysis and offers a unique perspective on the complexities of liberation movements.