Israel-Hamas Conflict: What’s happening in Israel | Read In Points

Israel-Hamas Conflict:  Over the past weekend, a sudden and unanticipated offensive by Hamas has ignited a dire situation in Israel and the Gaza Strip, rekindling historic tensions. In an audacious operation on October 7 (Saturday), Hamas insurgents executed a multi-pronged, surprise attack, infiltrating several towns in Southern Israel.

The assault resulted in the tragic loss of over 1,000 Israeli lives, with approximately 150 hostages taken. This strategic maneuver unfolded on the Jewish holiday of Simchat Torah, taking Israel by surprise.

Israeli Response

In the wake of the assault, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) reacted with remarkable celerity, launching a full-scale military campaign against Hamas in Gaza. Airstrikes were deployed, regrettably leading to a considerable number of Palestinian civilian casualties. 

Understanding the Gaza Strip

The Gaza Strip, a slender territory housing 2.3 million Palestinian residents, has remained under Hamas' governance since 2007. Israel has imposed a blockade, severely restricting the flow of goods and the movement of people, resulting in a faltering economy and a healthcare system under severe strain.

Roots of the Conflict

Hamas attributes its offensive to events at the Al-Aqsa mosque compound in Jerusalem, a holy site shared by both Jewish and Muslim faiths. Nonetheless, this conflict is deeply rooted in longstanding disputes over territory and sovereignty, underscored by four wars between Hamas and Israel since 2007.

Israeli Actions and Their Implications

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel is now 'at war', subsequently intensifying airstrikes within Gaza. The blockade has been tightened, exacerbating the prevailing humanitarian crisis. The situation has led to significant displacement within Gaza.

Deciphering Hamas

Established in 1987, Hamas is a militant Palestinian group with the aim of establishing an Islamic Palestinian state, effectively supplanting Israel. It carries the designation of a terrorist organisation by the United States, European Union, and other nations.

Hamas' Leadership

Hamas is led by Yahya Sinwar and Ismail Haniyeh, with Mohammed Deif overseeing the group's military wing. Yahya Sinwar is based in Gaza, while Ismail Haniyeh resides in exile, as noted by the Associated Press.

Regarding the recent attack, Ismail Haniyeh expressed, "We have reached a point where we believe that it is time to bring an end to the ongoing cycle of intifadas and revolutions, in our relentless struggle to liberate our land and free our compatriots detained in Israeli prisons."

The Enigma of Palestine

The notion of Palestine has a rich and intricate history, with a noteworthy 139 out of 193 UN member states acknowledging it in various capacities. The crux of the issue arises from territorial disagreements and competing claims, further convoluted by deep-seated religious and historical connections to the region.

- With inputs from agencies

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