Hamas is a Palestinian Sunni Islamic terrorist organization that operates primarily in Gaza and the West Bank, with holdings in Arab countries throughout the Middle East.
Hamas was an offshoot of the Muslim Brotherhood political movement, and was established in 1987 in the wake of the First Intifada. According to Hamas’s charter, the organization was established to liberate Palestine from Israel in order to establish an Islamic state. It holds aspirations on all territory between the Mediterranean seas and the Jordan river, and refuses to acknowledge Israel in any capacity.
The group has a military wing, known as the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades. Hamas has used a wide range of tactics, but it does not discriminate in its targets, and often targets civilians. It is recognized by most Western states as a terrorist organization. Hamas has engaged in a number of military confrontations with Israel. Its military wing has employed tactics such as suicide bombings, rocket attacks, kidnapping attempts, and tunnel infiltrations against Israeli soldiers and civilians.
In 2006, the Palestinians held legislative elections in Gaza, but when Hamas won, there was a civil war, and Hamas seized full control of the Strip. Under Hamas, Gaza has been in a longstanding state of conflict with Israel. From the 2005 Israeli disengagement onwards, Hamas has continued to commit terrorist attacks against Israelis from Gaza, and several operations have been fought to quell Hamas attacks, including 2008's Cast Lead, 2011's Pillar of Defense, 2014's Protective Edge, and 2021's Guardian of the Walls.
Israel’s Security Cabinet updated its war objectives to include safely returning northern residents, intensifying efforts amid ongoing Hezbollah threats.
The "October 7 HerStory" project by the Eden Association documents the intense trauma and common fears experienced by Israeli women during October 7.
Sinwar commends Houthi missile attack on Israel • Two rocket hits in Metula area • Netanyahu asserts military operation against Hezbollah if diplomacy fails
The October 7 Hamas invasion exposed severe shortcomings in Israel’s preparedness and response. Explore the multi-faceted responsibilities and lessons that must be addressed for a safer future.
This past year has tested the Jewish community like never before. Resilience, pride, and communal support are guiding us through trauma and helping us move forward with strength and unity.
Despite initial threats, Iran's reaction to the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh has been marked by strategic evasion and diplomatic maneuvering, showcasing the regime's focus on its nuclear program.
In August 2023, Hanan al-Bayouk gave birth to premature triplets in East Jerusalem but had to leave them due to Gaza-Israel conflict restrictions.
Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar praised the Yemeni Houthis for their missile strike on Israel, marking their first attack on central Israel.
Sinwar commends Houthi missile attack on Israel • Two rocket hits in Metula area • Netanyahu asserts military operation against Hezbollah if diplomacy fails
The atrocities of October 7 and the intentions by its perpetrators to wipe Israel – and in fact all Jews – entirely off the map were stated quite clearly, out loud, with no equivocation.
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