Understanding Hamas: Origins, Objectives, and Distinctions

A deep dive into the rise, plans, and motives of Hamas.

Who is Hamas?

Hamas, also known as "Harakat al-Muqawamah al-Islamiyya" (Islamic Resistance Movement), originated in 1987 during the First Intifada. It grew from Egypt's Muslim Brotherhood, but evolved in the Palestinian Territories, emphasizing both Palestinian nationalism and Islamic identity.

What is the mission of Hamas?

Hamas's charter (1988) declares its mission to establish an Islamic state in historic Palestine, which includes today's Israel. It functions as a resistance movement against Israeli occupation and offers social services to Palestinians. In 2017, Hamas's policy document indicated a possible acceptance of a Palestinian state based on 1967 borders without explicitly recognizing Israel.

BRIEF OVERVIEW

  • Identity: Hamas is an Islamist political and militant group, but not all Palestinians align with its beliefs.

  • Territory: Hamas governs the Gaza Strip, while the Palestinian Authority, led by the secular Fatah party, manages parts of the West Bank.

  • Politics: The relationship between Hamas and Fatah has seen contention. Their paths and strategies for a Palestinian state have led to internal conflicts.

Burned out ruins of Kibbutz Beeri near the Gaza Strip in southern Israel following the incursion by Hamas militants into the village on Saturday, October 7, 2023.

A timeline of hatred.
A timeline of terror.

  • 1987: Founding

    Hamas is established during the First Intifada as an offshoot of the Egyptian Muslim Brotherhood.

  • 1988: Charter Release

    Hamas issues its charter, calling for an Islamic state in historic Palestine and rejecting any peaceful solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

  • 1993: First Suicide Bombing

    Hamas carries out its first suicide bombing in Israel, marking the start of a campaign against Israeli civilian and military targets.

  • 2000-2005: Second Intifada

    Intensified armed confrontation with Israel. Hamas carries out numerous suicide bombings, particularly during this period.

  • 2006: Electoral Victory

    Hamas wins the Palestinian legislative elections, taking by surprise many who expected Fatah to retain power.

  • 2007: Gaza Takeover

    Following internal Palestinian strife, Hamas forcefully takes over the Gaza Strip, leading to a de facto split between Gaza (Hamas) and the West Bank (Palestinian Authority/Fatah).

  • 2008-2009: Operation Cast Lead

    Israel launches a military operation in Gaza in response to rocket fire by Hamas. The conflict lasts for three weeks.

  • 2012: Operation Pillar of Defense

    Another conflict erupts between Israel and Hamas following increasing rocket attacks on Israel.

  • 2014: Operation Protective Edge

    A 50-day war between Israel and Hamas results in significant casualties on both sides.

  • 2017: Policy Document Release

    Hamas releases a new policy document, indicating a potential willingness to accept a Palestinian state based on 1967 borders but without recognizing Israel.

  • 2021: Conflict Renewal

    Another round of conflict, initiated by mutual provocations, sees large-scale rocket fire from Gaza and airstrikes by Israel.

  • 2023: Attack in Southern Israel

    Another round of conflict, initiated by mutual provocations, sees large-scale rocket fire from Gaza and airstrikes by Israel.

Together, We Are Project Shield

We carry this heavy responsibility together. We are working with ministry partners on the ground to bring help and healing to those impacted by the October 7, 2023 attacks by Hamas. Each donation is a stand for life, a message of hope, and a tangible demonstration of the love Yeshua has for His people. Thank you for being a part of this urgent and vital mission. Give life!

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