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.
The former law student had been recorded stating she was "full of joy" about the Hamas attack on October 7.
The IAF struck several military structures in Gaza, as well as terror cells, anti-tank positions, and additional terrorist infrastructure.
“The treaty obligates all signatory nations not just not to commit genocide, but to prevent it,” said Rosenbaum.
US moves forward with Gaza pier • Rockets fired at northern Israel
Reporter's notebook: People here are still on edge and they wonder whether Israel will defeat Hamas. The promises of the war have not been fulfilled.
Defense Minister Gallant vows to cut off Hamas's rearming ability in Rafah. Despite progress, Hamas still launches rockets, challenging IDF's assertion of dismantling Hamas's military.
Lawsuit filed against Haverford College claims violation of Jewish students' civil rights, alleging hostility, double standards, and failure to address antisemitic behavior.
Arab League summit convenes in Bahrain to address the Gaza conflict and regional integration. Concerns arise over Israel's isolation amid shifting alliances and diplomatic challenges.
Netanyahu clashes with Gallant • Gantz over Gaza plans, Haredi draft • US moves forward with Gaza pier
Officials hope the pier can be anchored to the coast of Gaza and aid can start flowing in the coming days.