Hamas, a significant player in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, was founded in the late 1980s with the mission of resisting the Israeli state. Emerging from the Muslim Brotherhood, Hamas has since developed into a formidable organization with both military and social dimensions. The group is considered a terrorist organization by both the United States and Israel due to its militant activities and involvement in numerous conflicts, including the 2008-2009 and 2014 Gaza Wars.
Since 2007, Hamas has maintained control over the Gaza Strip, establishing a strong military presence estimated at 20,000 to 30,000 fighters. This military wing has been responsible for numerous rocket attacks on Israeli cities and towns, as well as kidnappings and murders of Israeli civilians. Despite its militant operations, Hamas also plays a significant role in Gaza's social fabric, providing healthcare, education, and other essential services.
Hamas' complex relationship with other Palestinian factions, such as Fatah, has shaped its political dynamics. While often at odds with these factions, Hamas has engaged in negotiations with Israel, including a notable 2017 proposal to accept a Palestinian state within Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem. These negotiations reflect the group's willingness to consider political solutions alongside its military strategies.
Internationally, Hamas maintains diplomatic missions in countries like Turkey and Qatar. This global presence highlights its influence beyond the Middle East and complicates efforts by the US and Israel to isolate the group through sanctions and boycotts. “The US has almost no leverage on Hamas and US threats against Hamas are almost useless,” notes Baskin, emphasizing the challenges faced by Western powers in dealing with Hamas.
The group's military capabilities are significant, boasting an arsenal that includes rockets, missiles, and other weapons. This arsenal underpins its resistance against Israeli occupation and garners support from many Palestinians who view Hamas as a defender of their rights. As Hamzé Attar, a Palestinian journalist and defense analyst, points out, “Hamas are not lunatics,” suggesting that their actions are rooted in strategic considerations rather than irrationality.
Hamas' influence extends into the international arena, where it engages in diplomacy despite being targeted by US and Israeli sanctions. Osama Hamdan, a senior member of Hamas' politburo, asserts that Hamas “will be treated like Israel,” indicating the group's determination to assert its legitimacy on the world stage. Nonetheless, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains resolute in his stance to “eliminate” the militant group, viewing their actions as “a reward for terrorism.”
The group's relationship with Israel is fraught with tension and violence. Despite periodic negotiations, such as those involving a 2017 proposal for Palestinian statehood, lasting peace remains elusive. The Israeli government has made its position clear regarding any talks with Hamas. “Israel has expressed to the United States its position regarding direct talks with Hamas,” states the office of Prime Minister Netanyahu.
In response to ongoing conflict and hostilities in Gaza, US President Donald Trump has advised civilians that “now is the time to leave Gaza,” reflecting concerns over escalating violence. Meanwhile, Karoline Leavitt, White House press secretary, has clarified that “the special envoy who’s engaged in those negotiations does have the authority to talk to anyone,” suggesting an openness to dialogue under specific circumstances.
Hamas' significant social and charitable presence in Gaza adds another layer to its identity. The group provides critical services such as healthcare and education, embedding itself deeply within Palestinian society. This dual role as both a militant entity and a social provider complicates perceptions of Hamas within Gaza and beyond.
The group's relationship with other Palestinian factions is characterized by both cooperation and conflict. While often at odds with Fatah over governance issues, Hamas has occasionally aligned with other groups when confronting Israel. This dynamic reflects broader Palestinian political complexities and highlights the challenges of achieving unity among factions with differing ideologies and objectives.
Despite facing sanctions and boycotts from powerful nations like the US and Israel, Hamas maintains a strong influence among Palestinians. Many see the group as a symbol of resistance against Israeli occupation. Mkhaimar Abusada, a Palestinian politics professor, notes that while some view Hamas' militant actions as “a burden” for the group, others see them as justified efforts for self-defense.
