Recent events in the Israel-Gaza conflict have once again drawn global attention to the ongoing tension in the region. In this article, we provide essential context and information to help you better understand the situation.
What is Hamas?
Hamas is a Palestinian Islamist militant group that governs the Gaza Strip. The group is committed to the destruction of Israel and has engaged in several conflicts with Israel since taking control of Gaza in 2007. In between these conflicts, Hamas has launched thousands of rockets at Israel and conducted other deadly attacks. Israel, along with Egypt, has imposed a blockade on Gaza since 2007, citing security concerns.
Hamas is internationally designated as a terrorist organization by Israel, the United States, the European Union, the UK, and other nations. Iran provides financial support, weapons, and training to Hamas.
The Gaza Strip
The Gaza Strip is a narrow territory, approximately 25 miles long and 6 miles wide, situated between Israel, Egypt, and the Mediterranean Sea. It is densely populated, with around 2.3 million residents. Israel controls Gaza’s airspace and shoreline and regulates the flow of goods and people through its border crossings. Egypt also controls its border with Gaza. As a result, a significant portion of Gaza’s population relies on international aid, with about one million people depending on daily food assistance.
Palestine and Its Significance
Historically, the West Bank, Gaza, East Jerusalem, and Israel were collectively known as Palestine. This region has a rich history, serving as the homeland for both Jews and Palestinians. In 1948, Israel was declared a state, but the term “Palestine” is still used by those who do not recognize Israel’s right to exist. Palestinians also use “Palestine” as an umbrella term for the West Bank, Gaza, and East Jerusalem.
Reasons for the Israel-Hamas Conflict
There has been constant tension between Israel and Hamas, but the recent attack by Hamas militants came as a surprise. Hamas fired thousands of rockets at Israel while dozens of fighters breached the border, infiltrating Israeli communities, and causing civilian casualties. Israel responded with immediate airstrikes, targeting militant sites in Gaza.
Unprecedented Nature of the Attack
This attack represents Hamas’s most ambitious operation from Gaza and one of the most significant cross-border attacks Israel has faced in decades. Militants breached multiple points along the Gaza-Israel border, catching Israeli forces off guard. The timing, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the 1973 Middle East war, adds to its significance.
Israeli Intelligence Failure
The attack has raised questions about Israeli intelligence. Despite having extensive intelligence services and security measures along the Gaza-Israel border, Hamas militants successfully infiltrated Israel. This breach highlights the challenges Israel faces in preventing such attacks.
Future Implications
Hamas’s call for Palestinians and other Arabs to join their operation raises concerns about the potential for a broader conflict. Israel anticipates the possibility of a multi-front war, with Hezbollah, a powerful Lebanese militant group, potentially getting involved. Israel has already faced rocket attacks from Hezbollah. The Israeli military has deployed additional troops and indicated plans for a ground operation in Gaza.
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Source: BBC
