Hamas is a Palestinian organization with both political and military wings. Founded in 1987 during the First Intifada, it has played a significant role in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Hamas combines Palestinian nationalist and Islamist elements in its ideology, with the goal of liberating Palestinian territories from Israeli control.
Hamas came to power in Gaza in 2007 after a violent conflict with Fatah, its Palestinian rival. This led to a division between Hamas-controlled Gaza and Fatah-controlled West Bank, a situation that continues to this day.
The organization has employed a variety of tactics, including violence and terrorism such as suicide bombings and rocket attacks on Israeli cities, which have resulted in civilian casualties on both sides. Due to these actions and its rejection of Israel’s right to exist, several countries and international organizations have designated Hamas as a terrorist group.
Apart from its military activities, Hamas has been involved in providing social services in Gaza, including running schools and hospitals. It has also participated in Palestinian politics by taking part in elections.
Hamas has received support from various countries, most notably Iran and Qatar, both financially and politically.
The Gaza Strip, where Hamas holds control, has faced economic challenges due to an Israeli-Egyptian blockade imposed since 2007. This blockade has restricted the movement of goods and people, resulting in high unemployment and poverty rates among the population.
Internal disputes and controversies have arisen within Hamas, including debates over its political and military strategies and allegations of corruption among its leaders.
