why are Israel and Hamas fighting?

The conflict between Israel and Hamas is a long-term and multifaceted issue that has attracted international attention for decades. This conflict is deeply rooted in a complex history of territorial disputes, political aspirations and ethnic tensions. In this article, we will explore the key reasons why Israel and Hamas are engaged in a protracted struggle for control and recognition in the Middle East.

 Historical background

 In order to understand the origins of the conflict between Israel and Hamas, it is necessary to delve into the historical context. This event was accompanied by the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians, leading to deep-rooted resistance and desire for statehood among the Palestinian population.

 Territorial disputes

 One of the primary sources of contention in the conflict between Israel and Hamas is the issue of territory. Hamas, a Palestinian political and militant organization, seeks the creation of an independent Palestinian state in the Gaza Strip and West Bank, territories currently under Israeli control. Israel's continued presence in these areas has sparked a struggle for control and sovereignty. 

Political aspirations 

Hamas emerged in the late 1980s as a response to Israel's occupation of the Palestinian territories and the failure of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) to achieve statehood through negotiations. Hamas, which denies the existence of Israel and advocates armed resistance, has gained support among some Palestinians who see it as a more determined force against the Israeli government.

 Blockades and economic difficulties

 Israel's imposition of blockades and restrictions on the Gaza Strip, where Hamas has the strongest presence, has led to economic hardship and limited access to basic necessities for the Palestinian population. This raised tensions and provided a recruiting ground for Hamas.

 Ideological and religious differences

 Another layer of conflict is rooted in ideological and religious differences. Hamas is an Islamist organization and its leaders draw on religious motivations to justify their actions. Israel, on the other hand, is a predominantly Jewish state. These different religious and ideological positions contributed to the division between the two parties.

 International involvement 

The conflict between Israel and Hamas is not isolated, but part of the wider context of the Middle East. Regional and international actors have been involved in mediating, supporting or escalating the conflict. Countries such as Iran and Qatar have provided financial and political support to Hamas, while the United States and European nations have traditionally supported Israel.

 The conflict between Israel and Hamas is a deep-rooted and multifaceted issue with a complex history. Territorial disputes, political aspirations, economic hardship, ideological differences, and international involvement have all played a significant role in sustaining this conflict. Achieving lasting peace in the region is a challenging task, but remains a vital goal for the global community that can only be achieved through diplomatic engagement and a commitment to address the root causes of this ongoing conflict.