Behind The Headlines: Understanding The Hamas Attack On Israel That Took The World By Surprise

Israeli-Palestinian conflict: Israel and Hamas are teetering on the edge of another conflict following a surprise attack on Saturday, which involved aerial, sea, and ground operations launched by the Palestinian group from the Gaza Strip. In response, Israel initiated a heavy bombardment of the blockaded coastal enclave.

Here's what you need to know:

What Happened and When:

• Hamas, the Palestinian armed group, commenced "Operation Al-Aqsa Flood" against Israel, marking the most significant escalation since the 11-day war in 2021.
• Hamas claimed to have fired 5,000 rockets, while Israel confirmed that the group's fighters entered its territory.
• Daniel Hagari, an Israeli army spokesman, stated that the group launched attacks from land, sea, and air.
• The initial rocket strikes began at 06:30 am local time.
• The Israeli army responded with "Operation Iron Swords" against Hamas in the Gaza Strip.
• These early-morning attacks coincided with Simchat Torah, a holiday that falls near the conclusion of the weeklong Jewish festival Sukkot.

What is Hamas?

Hamas, officially known as the Islamic Resistance Movement, is a militant Palestinian nationalist and Islamist organisation operating in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, with a primary goal of establishing an independent Islamic state in historic Palestine. Dozens of countries have classified Hamas as a terrorist group, with variations in the extent of this designation, some focusing only on its military branch.

Hamas gained significant influence following its victory in the 2006 Palestinian legislative election and later became the de facto governing authority in the Gaza Strip after the 2007 Battle of Gaza. Its origins trace back to the Palestinian branch of the Muslim Brotherhood, and it was founded by Sheikh Ahmed Yassin, a Palestinian cleric in 1987 during the First Intifada, primarily with the goal of liberating Palestine, including modern-day Israel, from Israeli occupation and establishing an Islamic state.

Over the years, Hamas has been involved in multiple conflicts with Israel. Their military wing has carried out attacks against Israeli civilians and soldiers, including suicide bombings and rocket attacks. These attacks have resulted in condemnation from human rights organisations, which have labeled them as war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Where Did the Attacks Take Place:

• Rockets targeted locations as far north as Tel Aviv, while Hamas also sent fighters into southern Israel.
• Israeli media reported gunmen opening fire on passers-by in the town of Sderot. Social media footage appeared to show clashes in city streets and armed individuals in jeeps patrolling rural areas. There were reports of Hamas fighters taking control of Israeli civilian population centers.
• The Israeli army conducted attacks on Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip.
• Ongoing gun battles are concentrated in and around the towns of Kfar Aza, Sderot, Sufa, Nahal Oz, Magen, Be'eri, and the Re'im military base.

Casualties in Israel and Palestine:

At least 22 Israelis have been reported killed, with over 500 injured.
In confrontations between the Israeli army and Palestinian groups near the Gaza Strip's border area, at least four Palestinians have been killed, and five others are wounded.

Why Did Hamas Attack Israel:

• According to Hamas spokesperson Khaled Qadomi, the military operation is a response to the injustices Palestinians have endured over the decades, including issues related to Gaza, the Al-Aqsa mosque, and other grievances.
• Hamas leader Mohammed Deif stated that 5,000 rockets were launched, calling for all those with weapons to join the battle.
• Hamas has urged resistance fighters in the West Bank, as well as Arab and Islamic nations, to participate in the conflict.

What Is the Israeli Government's Response:

• The Israeli army issued warnings for residents living near Gaza to stay indoors or seek shelter.
• Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel is in a war it will win.
• Israeli President Isaac Herzog acknowledged that the country is facing a very challenging moment.
• Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant expressed confidence in victory and emphasized that Hamas had made a grave mistake by launching a war against Israel.

Latest Developments on the Ground:

• The Israeli military is engaging Hamas fighters in seven locations in southern Israel near the Gaza Strip.
• The Israeli cabinet is scheduled to convene a meeting.
• The Ministry of Health in Gaza has issued a call for blood donations at local hospitals.