The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas is a deeply rooted, complex, and highly contentious issue that has garnered worldwide attention for decades. Understanding the history of this conflict requires delving into a long and intricate narrative that has shaped the modern Middle East. In this blog post, we will explore the historical context and key events that have contributed to the enduring hostilities between Israel and Hamas.
The Birth of Israel
The story of Israel and Hamas begins in the aftermath of World War II and the Holocaust. The United Nations adopted a plan in 1947 to partition the British Mandate of Palestine into separate Jewish and Arab states, with Jerusalem as an international city. This decision led to the establishment of the State of Israel on May 14, 1948. While Israel was welcomed by many nations, it was met with vehement opposition by neighboring Arab states and Palestinian Arabs.
The Palestinian Exodus
The establishment of Israel triggered a mass exodus of Palestinian Arabs who fled or were expelled from their homes, leading to one of the most significant refugee crises in modern history. This event, known as the Nakba (catastrophe), left deep scars and a legacy of grievance among the Palestinian population, a sentiment that continues to fuel the conflict to this day.
The Six-Day War
The Six-Day War in 1967 marked a turning point in the Israel-Hamas conflict. Israel defeated the combined forces of Egypt, Jordan, and Syria and occupied the West Bank, East Jerusalem, the Gaza Strip, and the Golan Heights. The post-war occupation of Palestinian territories intensified Palestinian nationalism and resistance, laying the foundation for the emergence of Palestinian militant groups, including Hamas.
Hamas Emerges
Hamas, an acronym for “Harakat al-Muqawama al-Islamiya” (Islamic Resistance Movement), was founded in 1987 during the First Intifada, a Palestinian uprising against Israeli rule. Hamas began as a socio-political movement and charitable organization but gradually evolved into an armed resistance group that aimed to end Israeli occupation and establish an Islamic state in historic Palestine. The group’s commitment to violence and its opposition to the Oslo Accords made it a formidable adversary for Israel.
Intermittent Conflict
The conflict between Israel and Hamas has seen numerous escalations and ceasefires over the years. While there have been attempts to negotiate a peaceful resolution, a comprehensive and lasting agreement has remained elusive. Military confrontations like the 2008-2009 Gaza War, 2012 Gaza conflict, and the devastating 2014 Gaza war have left thousands dead and deepened the divide.
Current Situation in Gaza
Hamas, which has ruled the Gaza Strip since 2007, launched an attack inside Israel on October 7, 2023, killing hundreds and taking others hostage.
Its unprecedented breach of the border sent terrorists inside border communities and military installations, shocked Israel and its allies, and raised questions about the group’s capabilities and strategy. As of the writing of this post, the fighing has only intensified and seems there is no peace in sight.
What does Hamas want?
Hamas has always resorted to violence in an attempt to liberate occupied Palestinian territories and has called for the annihilation of Israel.
Hamas has carried out suicide bombings and over the years fired tens of thousands of powerful rockets from Gaza into Israel. Hamas has also established a network of tunnels running from Gaza to Egypt to smuggle in weapons, as well as attack tunnels burrowing into Israel.
I am not an expert on the situation over in the middle east but one thing I know for sure, there is strong feeling on both sides of this tragedy and finding peace looks to be intangible at this point.