A History of Hamas Terrorist Attacks on Israel
It has been almost five days since Hamas’s horrific terror attack on Israel. In the attack, terrorists from the Gaza Strip broke through the barriers to Israel and indiscriminately murdered everyone they came in contact with who wasn’t Palestinian. The terrorists raped hundreds of women and kidnapped hostages of all ages during the brief occupation. Now anticipation is growing as the war intensifies. Israel is pressuring Hamas with an unrelenting bombing campaign in Gaza. Meanwhile, Hamas is threatening to execute their captives on camera if the bombing does not stop immediately.
Who is Hamas?
Hamas, formally known as the Islamic Resistance Movement, has been a prominent player in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict for decades. Founded in 1987 during the First Intifada, Hamas has evolved from a local resistance movement to an internationally recognized organization. While it enjoys substantial popularity among Palestinians, its violent tactics, including terrorist attacks, have contributed to instability in the region and a complex history with Israel. This article explores the history of Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel and the broader implications of these actions.
The Early Years
Hamas emerged during a turbulent period of Palestinian history. The First Intifada, which began in 1987, was a grassroots uprising against Israeli occupation. In this context, Hamas was founded with the goal of liberating Palestine and establishing an Islamic state. It soon became known for its radical ideology, which included the use of terrorism as a means to achieve its objectives.
Suicide Bombings and the Second Intifada
Hamas gained notoriety in the 1990s and early 2000s for its extensive use of suicide bombings against Israeli civilians. These attacks targeted buses, cafes, and marketplaces, inflicting significant casualties. During the Second Intifada (2000-2005), suicide bombings intensified, causing substantial damage and loss of life.
Operation Defensive Shield and Ceasefires
In 2002, Israel launched Operation Defensive Shield in response to a wave of Palestinian suicide bombings. The operation aimed to dismantle the infrastructure supporting these attacks. As a result, many of Hamas’s leaders and militants went into hiding, while others were arrested or killed.
Throughout the years, there have been several ceasefires brokered between Hamas and Israel, but these agreements have often been fragile and short-lived. The cycle of violence persisted, with rocket attacks from Gaza and Israeli military responses becoming recurrent events.
The Gaza Strip Takeover
In 2007, Hamas took control of the Gaza Strip after a violent conflict with its rival Palestinian faction, Fatah. This development created a significant division between the West Bank, ruled by Fatah and the Palestinian Authority, and the Gaza Strip, under Hamas’s control. The division complicated any prospects for a unified Palestinian government and a peace agreement with Israel.
The 2014 Gaza War
One of the most recent significant escalations occurred in 2014 when Israel and Hamas engaged in a seven-week war in Gaza. The conflict resulted in significant destruction and casualties on both sides, including a high number of civilian casualties.
Ongoing Tensions
Hamas continues to be a major player in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. While the organization has evolved to some extent, its militant activities persist, including rocket attacks and border clashes. Israel maintains a blockade on Gaza, citing security concerns, while Hamas remains in control of the territory.
Hamas’s history of terrorist attacks on Israel is a complex and tragic aspect of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The organization’s use of violence has resulted in suffering on both sides, with numerous innocent civilians paying the price. The situation remains highly sensitive and challenging, with international efforts aimed at achieving a lasting peace solution continuing to face obstacles. As the conflict persists, it is essential to remember the human toll and the ongoing need for justice and peace in Israel.
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