Hamas

Definition

Hamas is a Palestinian Islamic political and militant organization founded in 1987, known for its role in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It emerged during the First Intifada as an offshoot of the Egyptian Muslim Brotherhood and seeks to establish an Islamic state in historical Palestine. Hamas combines social, political, and military activities, advocating resistance against Israeli occupation while providing social services to Palestinians.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hamas won a significant victory in the 2006 Palestinian legislative elections, gaining control over the Gaza Strip.
2. The organization's military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, has conducted numerous attacks against Israeli forces and civilians.
3. Hamas is considered a terrorist organization by several countries, including the United States and Israel, due to its attacks on civilians.
4. The group has a dual approach that includes both armed resistance and political participation, often leading to tensions with rival factions like Fatah.
5. Hamas governs Gaza under a blockade imposed by Israel and Egypt, leading to significant humanitarian challenges for the Palestinian population.

Review Questions

• How did Hamas's emergence during the First Intifada reflect the political landscape of Palestine at that time?
  • Hamas's emergence during the First Intifada highlighted a growing frustration among Palestinians regarding Israeli occupation and a desire for a more assertive response than previously seen. It tapped into Islamic sentiments and the desire for self-determination while promoting resistance against Israel. This was significant as it marked a shift from secular nationalist movements, like those represented by the PLO, towards a more religiously oriented approach to Palestinian identity and governance.
• Analyze the impact of Hamas's governance in Gaza on the socio-political dynamics between Palestinian factions.
  • Hamas's governance in Gaza has created a complex power dynamic with rival factions, particularly Fatah. Following its electoral victory in 2006 and subsequent conflict with Fatah in 2007, Hamas established control over Gaza while Fatah retained authority in the West Bank. This division has led to political fragmentation among Palestinians, affecting unity in their struggle for statehood and complicating negotiations with Israel. The differing approaches of each faction have resulted in ongoing tensions that hinder cohesive political action.
• Evaluate how Hamas's dual strategy of military resistance and political engagement shapes its role within Palestinian society and its relationship with other states.
  • Hamas's dual strategy of engaging in military resistance while participating in politics positions it uniquely within Palestinian society. This approach allows it to maintain popular support by addressing immediate grievances through armed struggle while also attempting to govern effectively. However, this duality complicates its relationships with other states, as its militant actions lead to international isolation while its political engagements create opportunities for dialogue. Balancing these roles affects not only its internal legitimacy but also its capacity to navigate regional geopolitics and establish alliances.

Related terms

Intifada: A Palestinian uprising against Israeli occupation, with two significant waves occurring from 1987 to 1993 and from 2000 to 2005.

Muslim Brotherhood:

An Islamist organization founded in Egypt in 1928, aiming to promote Islamic governance and society through social services and political activism.

PLO (Palestine Liberation Organization): An umbrella organization representing the Palestinian people, established in 1964, which aims for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.