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Truth About Israel-Hamas War
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Truth About Israel-Hamas War

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The fact of the matter is that this Israel-Hamas war is quite an extreme topic these days as there are plenty of groups supporting both sides of this war. Every piece of information you have received about this conflict is biased on either side, but here we’re going to try and provide you information to make up your own mind. Diving into the history of the region, the conflicts, the previous wars, and the relationship of Israel-Hamas and Palestine.

Israel’s Independence

The history of Israel and its quest for independence is complex and deeply rooted in historical, religious, and political factors. Here’s a brief overview:

1. Ancient Roots:

  • The land of present-day Israel has a rich history dating back thousands of years, with Jerusalem holding significance in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
  • In antiquity, the region was home to various ancient Israelite kingdoms, including the Kingdom of Israel and the Kingdom of Judah.

2. Ottoman Rule (16th-20th centuries):

  • The Ottoman Empire ruled over the area from the 16th century until the aftermath of World War I.
  • During this period, Jewish communities coexisted with Arab and other communities in the region.

3. Balfour Declaration (1917):

  • During World War I, the British government issued the Balfour Declaration in 1917, expressing support for the establishment of a “national home for the Jewish people” in Palestine.

4. British Mandate (1920-1948):

  • After World War I, the League of Nations granted Britain the mandate to govern Palestine.
  • Tensions between Jewish and Arab communities increased as Jewish immigration surged.

5. World War II and Holocaust (1939-1945):

  • The horrors of the Holocaust during World War II had a profound impact on international sympathy for the establishment of a Jewish state.

6. UN Partition Plan (1947):

  • The United Nations proposed a partition plan in 1947, recommending the creation of separate Jewish and Arab states, with Jerusalem as an international city.
  • The Jewish leadership accepted the plan, but Arab leaders rejected it.

7. Declaration of the State of Israel (1948):

  • On May 14, 1948, David Ben-Gurion, the head of the Jewish Agency, declared the establishment of the State of Israel.
  • Arab nations opposed the declaration and invaded the newly formed state.

8. Arab-Israeli War (1948-1949):

  • The Arab-Israeli War followed the declaration of independence.
  • Israel managed to survive and even expand its territory, but the conflict left lasting tensions.

9. Armistice Agreements:

  • Armistice agreements were signed between Israel and its neighboring Arab states in 1949, defining borders and establishing a fragile peace.

The establishment of Israel marked a significant chapter in the history of the Middle East, shaping subsequent conflicts and geopolitical dynamics in the region. The Israeli-Arab conflict continues to influence global politics and remains a central issue in the quest for peace in the Middle East.

Invasions of Israel

Israel has experienced several invasions by Arab nations since its establishment in 1948. The major conflicts include:

1. War of Independence (1948-1949):

  • Following the declaration of the State of Israel in 1948, neighboring Arab states, including Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Iraq, and Lebanon, invaded.
  • Despite being outnumbered, Israel managed to survive and expanded its territory.
  • Armistice agreements were signed with the neighboring states in 1949, formalizing the borders and establishing an uneasy peace.

2. Suez Crisis (1956):

  • Israel, along with Britain and France, invaded the Sinai Peninsula in response to Egypt’s nationalization of the Suez Canal.
  • International pressure, especially from the United States and the Soviet Union, forced the withdrawal of the invading forces, and the Suez Crisis ended without significant territorial changes for Israel.

3. Six-Day War (1967):

  • Israel preemptively struck Egypt, Jordan, and Syria in 1967, resulting in a swift victory for Israel.
  • Israel gained control of the Sinai Peninsula, the Golan Heights, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem.
  • The aftermath of the war had profound implications for the region, including the ongoing Israeli occupation of the West Bank and East Jerusalem.

4. War of Attrition (1967-1970):

  • After the Six-Day War, sporadic fighting continued along the borders, primarily between Israel and Egypt.
  • The conflict eventually led to the ceasefire agreements of 1970.

5. Yom Kippur War (1973):

  • Egypt and Syria launched a surprise attack on Israel during the Yom Kippur holiday in 1973.
  • Initial successes by Arab forces were followed by Israeli counterattacks, leading to a ceasefire.
  • The war prompted renewed diplomatic efforts and laid the groundwork for peace talks between Israel and Egypt.

6. Lebanon War (1982):

  • Israel invaded Lebanon in 1982 in response to attacks by the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO).
  • The conflict led to the expulsion of the PLO from Lebanon and the establishment of a security zone in Southern Lebanon, which later became a source of ongoing conflict.

These conflicts have left a lasting impact on the region, contributing to the Israeli-Hamas conflict and shaping the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East. They also played a role in influencing diplomatic efforts, such as the Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt in 1978, which led to Egypt becoming the first Arab country to officially recognize Israel.

Israel-Hamas Conflicts

There have been several conflicts between Israel and Hamas. The major conflicts include:

1. Second Intifada (2000-2005):

  • While not a traditional war, this period saw a significant increase in violence between Israel and Palestinian groups, including Hamas.

2. Israel-Hamas Conflict (2008-2009):

  • Operation Cast Lead was a three-week military conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

3. Israel-Hamas Conflict (2012):

  • A series of exchanges of rocket attacks between Israel and Hamas took place in November 2012.

4. Israel-Hamas Conflict (2014):

  • Operation Protective Edge occurred in response to increased rocket attacks from Gaza into Israel.

5. Israel-Hamas Conflict (2021):

  • In May 2021, tensions escalated, leading to an 11-day conflict characterized by rocket attacks and airstrikes.

The conflict between Israel-Hamas is complex and rooted in historical, political, and ideological factors. Key reasons for the conflict include: The Israeli-Hamas conflict involves disputes over territory, particularly the status of the Gaza Strip, West Bank, and East Jerusalem. The establishment of the State of Israel in 1948 led to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians, creating a long-standing refugee issue. Israeli occupation of the West Bank and East Jerusalem, as well as the construction of Israeli settlements in these areas, has been a major point of contention.

Israel’s blockade of the Gaza Strip, controlled by Hamas, has led to economic hardship and restricted the movement of people and goods. Hamas, a Palestinian Islamist group, has a different ideological stance than the more secular Palestinian Authority.

  • It rejects the existence of Israel and advocates for an Islamic state in historic Palestine.
  • Israel cites security concerns, including rocket attacks from Gaza, as a justification for military actions in the region.

Despite various peace initiatives, a comprehensive and lasting solution to the Israeli-Hamas conflict has remained elusive, contributing to ongoing tensions. It’s essential to note that the perspectives on the conflict vary, and different parties involved have distinct narratives and interpretations of historical events. Achieving a peaceful resolution to the conflict remains a complex challenge.

Peace for Israel-Hamas

The Israeli-Hamas conflict has witnessed various attempts at peace negotiations over the years, with numerous initiatives aimed at finding a lasting resolution to the disputes. Some notable attempts include:

1. Oslo Accords (1993):

  • The Oslo Accords marked a series of agreements between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), signed in 1993 and 1995.
  • The accords aimed at establishing a framework for the gradual transfer of governing authority to the Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza Strip.
  • Implementation faced numerous challenges, leading to outbreaks of violence, including the Second Intifada that erupted in 2000.

2. Camp David Summit (2000):

  • The Camp David Summit in 2000, hosted by then-U.S. President Bill Clinton, involved talks between Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak and Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat.
  • The negotiations, however, did not result in a final agreement, and the Second Intifada (Palestinian uprising) erupted shortly afterward.

3. Road Map for Peace (2003):

  • The Road Map for Peace was introduced in 2003 by the Quartet on the Middle East (the United States, the European Union, the United Nations, and Russia).
  • The plan outlined a series of steps leading to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, but progress was limited.

4. Gaza Disengagement (2005):

  • In 2005, Israel unilaterally withdrew from the Gaza Strip, dismantling settlements and evacuating Israeli civilians. However, the disengagement did not lead to improved relations, and the situation in Gaza became more complex, eventually leading to conflicts between Israel and Hamas.

5. Annapolis Conference (2007):

  • The Annapolis Conference in 2007 was initiated by U.S. President George W. Bush and brought together Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.
  • The conference aimed to relaunch negotiations, but peace talks stalled amid ongoing disagreements.

6. Kerry-Led Peace Talks (2013-2014):

  • U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry initiated a new round of peace talks in 2013, involving Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.
  • The negotiations collapsed in 2014, with both sides blaming each other for the breakdown.

7. Abraham Accords (2020):

  • The Abraham Accords were agreements between Israel and several Arab states, including the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Sudan, and Morocco, brokered by the United States in 2020.
  • While not directly addressing the Israeli-Hamas conflict, these accords represented a significant shift in regional dynamics.

Despite these efforts, a comprehensive and lasting resolution to the Israeli-Hamas conflict remains elusive. The challenges include issues such as borders, refugees, the status of Jerusalem, security arrangements, and the recognition of Israel’s right to exist alongside a viable and independent Palestinian state. The conflict continues to be a complex and deeply entrenched geopolitical issue.

Why No Peace?

Achieving a lasting peace between Israel-Hamas has proven elusive due to a multitude of factors. While Israel has made various attempts and offered concessions in pursuit of a peaceful resolution, there have been challenges in finding common ground with Hamas, the de facto governing authority in the Gaza Strip. Israel’s security concerns, including the threat of rocket attacks from Gaza, have been significant obstacles. Additionally, the ideological differences between Israel-Hamas, with the Hamas refusing to recognize Israel’s right to exist and advocating for an Islamic state in historic Palestine, further complicate the peace process.

Despite Israel’s efforts to engage in negotiations and make concessions, the lack of mutual recognition, ongoing hostilities, and a deep-seated mistrust between the parties have hindered the achievement of a comprehensive peace agreement. The complex nature of the conflict, including historical grievances, territorial disputes, and the broader geopolitical context, underscores the formidable challenges in reaching a sustainable resolution to the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Essentially for the Israel-Hamas conflict there have been multiple occasions of Israel creating methods to allow for a two state solution as most people advocate. However, this has been denied constantly by the Hamas leaders who ultimately want to annihilate all Jews in the region and destroy Israel as a country. They have accepted all the options Israel has given them and then continued to increase violence against the Jewish population by setting up hits to kill Jewish citizens.

Explaining Hamas

Hamas is a Palestinian Islamist political and militant organization. It was founded in 1987 during the First Intifada (Palestinian uprising against Israeli occupation) and has since evolved into a significant player in Palestinian politics. Hamas’s founding charter calls for the establishment of an Islamic state in historic Palestine and rejects the recognition of Israel. The organization has both political and military wings, with its military wing known as the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades.

Hamas gained popularity through its social services and charitable activities in Palestinian territories but has also been involved in conflicts with Israel, leading to its designation as a terrorist organization by several countries and international entities. The relationship between Hamas and other Palestinian factions, such as Fatah, has been marked by both cooperation and internal rivalry. Hamas has been designated as a terrorist organization by several countries and international entities for several reasons:

  1. Use of Violence:
    • Hamas has been involved in armed resistance against Israel, including suicide bombings, rocket attacks, and other acts of violence. The group’s military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, has been responsible for numerous attacks targeting civilians.
  2. Rejection of Israel’s Right to Exist:
    • Hamas’s charter explicitly rejects the recognition of the State of Israel and calls for the establishment of an Islamic state in historic Palestine. This stance, which denies Israel’s right to exist, has contributed to its designation as a terrorist organization by those who view it as a threat to regional stability.
  3. Involvement in the Israeli-Hamas Conflict:
    • Hamas has played a prominent role in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, engaging in armed confrontations with Israeli forces and conducting attacks on Israeli civilians. This involvement in violent activities has led to its classification as a terrorist group by those who condemn its tactics.
  4. Targeting of Civilians:
    • The tactics employed by Hamas, including the launching of rockets into civilian areas and suicide bombings, have resulted in the loss of innocent lives. Deliberate targeting of civilians is a violation of international humanitarian law and has contributed to its designation as a terrorist organization.
  5. Repression of Political Opposition:
    • In the Gaza Strip, where Hamas governs, the group has been criticized for suppressing political opposition, limiting freedom of expression, and using force against rivals, which has raised concerns about human rights abuses.

Different countries and international organizations may have varying criteria and perspectives when designating an organization as a terrorist group. While some entities, including the European Union and the United States, label Hamas as a terrorist organization, others, especially in the Arab world, view it more favorably as a resistance movement against Israeli occupation. The classification of Hamas is a contentious and politically charged issue, reflecting the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

October 7th, 2023 Invasion

On October 7th, 2023 the Israel-Hamas war took a turn for the worst as Hamas invaded Israel killing 1,400 civilians, raping women, and burning babies. Their atrocities were felt worldwide as many countries denounced their invasion and the horrors committed by Hamas shocked the globe. Sadly, many denied Israel’s statements of what happened which forced the Jewish community to provide evidence and pictures of the burnt baby corpses as well as the slaughters that occurred by Pro-Palestine terrorist group Hamas.

After the attack Israel declared war against Hamas on October 8th, 2023 calling up their 300,000 military reservists. Israel began aerial and ground bombardments into Gaza the Palestinian controlled area. Israel provided a 24 hour warning to all citizens in northern Gaza claiming they should evacuate and Hamas ordered all their citizens to remain in place.  This began the week’s long attacks of airstrikes on Gaza and Israel’s suspected Hamas targets.

A ground invasion began on October 28th, 2023 as IDF entered into Gaza and began their widespread operations to find hostages taken by Hamas. Their main goal was to secure territories for their operations and provide a ground force against the terrorist organization in their own region. Currently the IDF and IAF are at war in Gaza attempting to find additional hostages and weaken the terrorist organization known as Hamas.

As well as murdering innocent civilians, burning babies, and raping women, Hamas took over 200 hostages from Israel including visitors from other countries. They were held hostage in Gaza ensuring that the Hamas terrorist can have a bargaining agreement against Israel which they used on November 21, 2023. During this period they asked for a ceasefire while their operations can regain organization in the Gaza strip.

A ceasefire occurred for a few days with Hamas releasing 105 hostages they had took from Israel during their October 7 attack. Israel as well released many Palestinian prisoners from their jails. However, negotiations came to a pause as Hamas failed to meet the agreed ceasefire agreements as they did not release all of their women and children hostages. The truce lasted from November 24 to December 1, but the truce ended with fighting beginning yet again.

Public Support

Now this is where everything takes a turn with bias in the news, media, and other public outlets. It seems that early on in this conflict the majority of the outlets and public support ranged from denouncing Hamas. Their atrocities committed in early October were despicable and disgusting acts of violence to the Jewish population. However, as Israel began its bombing brigade against Palestine, there were countless photos of destroyed buildings, children dead, and humanitarian disasters.

Now in December the public support seems extremely mixed with many university aged students supporting Palestine in droves. There have been countless protests against Israel who is currently in the Palestinian lands. The worst part is people don’t realize America committed the same acts as Israel did during the 9/11 catastrophe. A total of 2,977 died during the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the world trade center and other areas in America.

The United States took a full approach against the war on terror because of these terrorist attacks by going to war with Afghanistan. Interestingly enough, the same day October 7th was when Hamas attacked Israel. As well as when the United States declared war on terror by entering Afghanistan on October 7th. Now the war with Afghanistan was in 2001 and the Hamas invasion occurred in 2023 separated by 22 years, but they were on the same day. As much as people condemn the bombings in Palestine, its essential to state that Israel did not start this war.

Palestinian Argument

Occupation and Displacement:

    • Many supporters of Palestine emphasize the historical displacement of Palestinians during the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, resulting in the creation of a significant population of Palestinian refugees. The Israeli occupation of the West Bank and East Jerusalem, as well as the construction of Israeli settlements in these areas, are points of contention.

Human Rights Concerns:

    • Advocates for Palestine often highlight perceived human rights violations, such as restrictions on movement, house demolitions, and military operations that impact Palestinian civilians. Issues related to access to water, land, and basic services are also emphasized.

Gaza Blockade:

    • The blockade on the Gaza Strip, which has been controlled by Hamas, is a major concern for supporters of Palestine. Critics argue that the blockade has led to economic hardship, high unemployment, and restricted access to essential goods and services for Gazans.

International Law and UN Resolutions:

    • Some supporters of Palestine reference international law and United Nations resolutions that address the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. They may argue that certain Israeli actions, such as settlement construction in the West Bank, are in violation of international law.

Asymmetry of Power:

    • The perceived imbalance of power between Israel, a well-established state with a modern military, and the Palestinians, who lack a sovereign state, resonates with those who see the conflict as unequal. Critics often point to the significant military and economic support that Israel receives from the United States.

Jerusalem:

    • The status of Jerusalem is a highly contentious issue. Both Israelis and Palestinians claim Jerusalem as their capital, and any changes to the status quo, particularly in East Jerusalem, are often met with international concern.

Refugee Issue:

    • The displacement of Palestinians during the establishment of Israel in 1948 created a significant refugee population. Advocates for Palestine often emphasize the right of return for Palestinian refugees and their descendants.

Solidarity Movements:

    • There are global solidarity movements that advocate for Palestinian rights. Activists, academics, and individuals may express support for Palestine as part of broader social justice and anti-colonial movements.

Israeli Argument

Historical and Religious Connection:

    • Many people view Israel as the historic homeland of the Jewish people with deep ties to religious and cultural heritage. The establishment of the State of Israel in 1948 is seen by supporters as a fulfillment of historical and biblical promises.

Security Concerns:

    • Supporters of Israel often highlight the security challenges the country faces, including historical conflicts and the threat of violence from various groups. Israel’s military actions are sometimes framed as necessary measures to ensure the safety and protection of its citizens.

Existential Threats:

    • The history of wars and conflicts involving neighboring Arab nations and groups is often cited to emphasize Israel’s position as a country facing existential threats. Some supporters argue that Israel has a right to defend itself against external aggression.

Innovation and Technology:

    • Israel is often praised for its achievements in technology, innovation, and various industries. Supporters may see Israel as a democratic and advanced society contributing positively to the global community.

Peace Efforts:

    • Some argue that Israel has made efforts towards peace, citing agreements and negotiations with neighboring Arab countries such as the Abraham Accords in 2020. Supporters may view Israel as a willing partner in seeking regional stability.

United Nations Recognition:

    • The establishment of the State of Israel was supported by a United Nations resolution (UN General Assembly Resolution 181) in 1947. Some supporters of Israel emphasize its legitimacy as a state recognized by the international community.

Terrorism Concerns:

    • Israel faces security threats from various groups, and supporters often point to acts of terrorism, including suicide bombings and rocket attacks, as reasons for Israel’s security measures.

Commitment to Democracy:

    • Israel is often described as the only democratic state in the Middle East, where citizens have political rights and freedoms. Supporters may view Israel’s commitment to democracy as a positive aspect in the region.

Peace Process Initiatives:

    • Some supporters argue that Israel has actively engaged in peace negotiations, pointing to instances such as the O

Conclusion

Now we can understand the complex history of Israel and how Jewish people have been attacked throughout the centuries. The Jewish population as a whole has suffered massive losses during a genocide, being removed from their territories, and invaded by other countries. The entire Arab community wanted the complete and utter decimation of the entire Jewish population as a whole. Their main goal for decades has been the complete removal of Jews from Israel.

On the Palestinian side their people are struggling and they have to support this terrorist organization known as Hamas. The reason they have to support Hamas is that any opposition can and will be killed if they resist. Additionally, the entire region of Palestine is extremely impoverished with many people living under the poverty line. Their people may truly believe that their land is being taken and occupied by Israel which creates an internal struggle of hatred for the Jewish community.

Lastly, it would be disingenuous to leave out the fact that Jewish people have occupied the area of Israel for centuries with Arab communities. If Israel truly wanted to genocide the Palestinian people they would be easily able to with their infrastructure, weaponry, and technological abilities. Israel as a whole supplied food, water, and energy to Palestine which was the only time in history that they had sustainable resources to grow. Israel has millions of Palestinians in the country allowed to live, work in high government positions, and travel freely if they aren’t trying to murder Israeli’s.

Additionally to add to all this dissent all the Arab communities have tried to invade, murder, and harm the Jewish population. They even go by a motto that is known as the Khartoum Resolution which states no peace, no recognition, and no negotiations with Israel. They literally want to destroy Israel and the Jewish community as whole from the entire region as the rest of the area is a mostly Muslim population. Within the Muslim population there are the Shiites and the Sunni which also have tensions within each other that causes bloodshed. 

Although the three no’s resolution exists, the country of Israel has still been able to achieve negotiations with multiple countries. They’ve been able to obtain peace with Egypt which caused the Egyptian president Anwar Sadat to be assassinated after the negotiation. They also have a soft peace with Jordan which has caused no additional conflicts with that region. Lebanon as a country doesn’t really attack Israel, but they house the terrorist organization known as Hezbollah which is funded by Iran. Hezbollah launches constant attacks against the Israeli population. 

The ultimate solution to all this bloodshed and needless violence is for the Palestinian to denounce the terrorist organization known as Hamas. After the Palestinians denounce the group and jail all known Hamas operatives this will cause Israel to regain their trust with this region. As they continue maintaining better relations this will allow for a true two-state solution that people are nonsensically pushing. This solution requires that a terrorist organization doesn’t constantly try to murder and kill the Israeli community. A final argument toward Israel is that they developed the Iron Dome system which literally destroys rockets from Hamas which is aimed at their civilian population. They literally created a complex and technological system to avoid having to go to war with Palestine.

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