Hamas, an acronym for Harakat al-Muqawama al-Islamiyya, is a Palestinian political and military organization that operates primarily in the Gaza Strip. Established in 1987, Hamas has been a controversial and influential player in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
One of the main reasons behind Hamas’ attacks on Israel is its fundamental goal of liberating Palestine and establishing an independent Palestinian state. Hamas believes in armed resistance as a means to achieve this objective, viewing Israel as an occupying force that must be confronted.
Hamas also cites the ongoing Israeli blockade of Gaza as a major motivation for its attacks. The blockade, which has been in place since 2007, severely restricts the movement of goods and people in and out of the territory, leading to economic hardship and high unemployment rates. Hamas perceives these conditions as a form of collective punishment imposed on the Palestinian population, and it sees armed resistance as a way to challenge and break the blockade.
Furthermore, Hamas’ attacks on Israel are often driven by political considerations. The organization seeks to bolster its standing among Palestinians and demonstrate its resistance credentials, particularly in comparison to its rival, the Palestinian Authority. By engaging in armed confrontations with Israel, Hamas aims to position itself as the true defender of Palestinian rights and interests.