Why Is Israel at War With Hamas? Reasons & Impact Around

If you look at the news all around the world, you will see one headline dominating the media i.e. Israel-Hamas war or the Israel-Palestine conflict. Well, none of us are unaware of the bitter relationship between Israel and Palestine. But what’s happening these days is beyond our imagination. This is the first time after 1967, that Israel officially declared war. Now the question arises- Why is Israel at war with Hamas? Reasons & Impact around! Is it a failure of Mossad or a keen strategic planning of militants?

Let’s find out!

(A) Synopsis of the Israel-Hamas Conflict

Let’s talk about the ongoing Israel-Palestine Conflict in 2023. Why is Israel at war with Hamas? Well, it all began when the Hamas Group launched a sudden and intense attack, firing nearly 3000 rockets at major Israeli cities in just 20 minutes. Even the Iron Dome system couldn’t handle such a high-intensity assault.

In response to this attack, Israel initiated airstrikes on the Gaza Strip on Monday after the initial assault by the Palestinian Militant Group Hamas on a Saturday morning. Israeli officials have enforced a “complete siege” on the already blockaded and impoverished Gaza Strip, leaving its two million residents without access to essentials like food, water, and electricity.

Furthermore, Hamas has taken more than one hundred individuals, including Israeli citizens, soldiers, and foreigners, as hostages. This situation is a cause for global concern, and it’s vital to stay informed about the developments in this conflict.

You know what, this war didn’t occur just because of a small conflict. It has a deep history!

(B) Historical Context of the Israel-Palestine Conflict

This complex issue has deep historical roots, dating back to the late 19th century when the Zionist movement aimed to establish a Jewish homeland in Palestine during Ottoman rule. Things escalated after the British Government’s 1917 Balfour Declaration, which supported the idea of a Jewish homeland in Palestine. 

The founding of Israel in 1948, following World War II and the Holocaust, was a response to international calls for a Jewish state in Palestine. However, this led to a prolonged conflict between Israel and the Palestinian people, resulting in the displacement of many Palestinians.

(B.1) Timeline

Look at the following table describing the timeline of the Israel-Palestine Conflict

(B.2) Emergence of Hamas Militant Group

Hamas emerged in the late 1980s as a significant player in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It’s essential to understand its background. Hamas is an Islamist Palestinian organization founded amid the First Intifada (uprising) against Israeli occupation. 

Initially, it gained support by providing social services in the Gaza Strip and West Bank, serving as an alternative to the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO). Over time, it evolved into a military and political force, advocating resistance against Israel and refusing to recognize its existence. This shift has led to complex dynamics in the region, shaping the ongoing conflict and the challenges of peace negotiations.

(B.3) Key Objective of Palestinians & Hamas

What did you learn from the timeline given above? The Palestinians have a desire to establish their own sovereign state in some parts of historic Palestine, but achieving this goal is challenging due to various factors. These include Israeli border security measures, Palestinian internal politics, Israeli control over the West Bank, the Egyptian-Israeli embargo of the Gaza Strip, and Israeli authority over occupied territories. The situation is indeed intricate and continues to evolve, with no easy solutions in sight.

To achieve this objective Hamas launched severe airstrikes after which Israel officially landed in the war. Rest you have already read in the synopsis given in the previous section. In the following sections, you will get to know the reasons for the question- why is Israel at war with Hamas? Keep reading!

(C) Why is Israel at war with Hamas? Reasons explained.

In the volatile landscape of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, one of the central and persistent sources of tension is the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. This deep-rooted enmity has a multitude of underlying reasons, each contributing to the complex and often violent nature of this struggle. The following sections will reveal Why is Israel at war with Hamas? Reasons & impact around.

(C.1) Core Reasons for the Conflict

In this following discussion, we will delve into the key factors that have led to the enduring conflict between Israel and Hamas. We will shed light on the historical, territorial, security, political, humanitarian, and diplomatic aspects that underpin this ongoing strife.

(C.2) Detailed Explanation for Reasons behind Israel-Hamas War

(C.2.1) Historical Conflict

The Israel-Hamas conflict is deeply rooted in the historical backdrop of the Israeli-Palestinian struggle. It can be traced back to the late 19th century when Jewish and Arab communities in the region began to vie for land, sovereignty, and self-determination. These historical disputes over the control of Palestine set the stage for enduring hostilities.

(C.2.2) Territorial Disputes

One of the central causes of the conflict is territorial disputes. Hamas governs the Gaza Strip, a piece of land claimed both by Israel and the Palestinian Authority. Simultaneously, Israel maintains control over the West Bank. This division creates a volatile situation, with competing claims and aspirations for self-rule.

(C.2.3) Security Concerns

Israel perceives Hamas as a severe security threat. Hamas has launched rocket attacks from Gaza into Israeli territory and instigated border incursions. In response, Israel sees its foremost responsibility as safeguarding its citizens and often conducts military operations to counteract these security risks.

(C.2.4) Political Differences

Fundamental political disparities pose a significant barrier to peace. Hamas refuses to recognize Israel’s right to exist as a state, a stance that Israel deems unacceptable for productive negotiations. Israel insists on recognition as a prerequisite for any meaningful peace talks, highlighting the deep-seated ideological divide.

(C.2.5) Blockade and Humanitarian Concerns

Israel’s blockade of Gaza has resulted in economic hardship and humanitarian crises for the people living in the region. The restrictions on the movement of goods and people have led to unemployment, food and medical shortages, and inadequate access to basic services. These dire conditions have become a source of frustration and have contributed to ongoing tension and violence.

(C.2.6) Failed Peace Initiatives

Multiple peace initiatives and negotiations have been attempted over the years, but they have mostly failed to produce a comprehensive and lasting solution. These past failures have left both Israelis and Palestinians skeptical about the prospects for peaceful resolution, reinforcing the enduring nature of the conflict.

(C.2.7) Economic Factors

You can’t shut your eyes to the economic factors that led to the Israel-Hamas war. Let’s look at them one by one-

• Economic Disparities: Disparities in economic conditions between Gaza and the West Bank, which is governed by the Palestinian Authority, create regional tensions. The people of Gaza often perceive economic disparities as unjust, further fueling resentment.
• Smuggling & Informal Economy: The economic constraints have led to the growth of a black market and smuggling tunnels under Gaza’s border with Egypt. While these channels provide essential goods, they also contribute to instability and insecurity.
• Impact on Youth & Education: Limited economic opportunities, particularly for the youth, have had a significant impact. High unemployment and economic stagnation affect access to education, exacerbating the cycle of poverty.
• Poverty & Dependence: The economic hardship in Gaza has led to high poverty rates. Many Gazans rely on aid and are dependent on external support for basic needs, creating a sense of vulnerability and helplessness.

These economic factors create an environment of frustration, desperation, and hopelessness, contributing to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. They are intertwined with the broader political and security aspects of the conflict, making it a multifaceted and deeply entrenched issue.

(D) Impact of Israel-Hamas War

The following points explain the impact of the Israel-Hamas war all around the world-

(D.1) Destabilization of Middle-East Region

The Israel-Hamas conflict contributes to the overall destabilization of the Middle East. The region is already prone to political and security challenges. Plus, the ongoing conflict exacerbates these issues. It often draws in neighboring countries, further complicating regional stability.

(D.2) Humanitarian Consequences: Impact on Civilians

The civilian population, especially in Israel and Gaza is facing severe hardships. They endure the physical dangers of conflict and live under the constant threat of airstrikes and bombings. Also, they experience the economic and social disruptions brought about by the conflict.

We often hear about governments and military actions, but it’s important to remember that it’s regular people who are suffering the most. Think about living with the constant fear of airstrikes and bombings. Not knowing if your house will be the next target. Plus, your job is gone, and you can’t get the basics like food and clean water. It’s a tough life, to say the least.

(D.3) Regional Instability and Security Concerns

Now, this is where the domino effect comes in. The Israel-Hamas conflict can spill over into neighboring countries. It’s like a storm brewing and spreading. And you can imagine, when it’s unstable in your neighborhood, you’re concerned about security. It could lead to more conflicts or even affect international efforts to tackle terrorism. It’s a bit like a chain reaction. Now you must have got an idea on- Why is Israel at war with Hamas? Reasons & impact around.

(D.4) Negative Impact of the war on businesses worldwide

The Israel-Hamas conflict can have an adverse impact on businesses worldwide. It disrupts trade routes and markets in the region, affects investor confidence, and can lead to fluctuations in energy prices. Businesses may face operational challenges and losses due to instability and trade interruptions. 

Note: Do you know Oil Prices Skyrocketed Following Hamas’s Attack on Israel? This led to a rise in global concerns. Go through the article to get detailed information.

Additionally, ethical considerations might lead to pressure on companies to divest from entities connected to the conflict.

(D.5) Impact of Israel-Hamas War on India

The ongoing Israel-Hamas war has the potential to impact India in various ways. Such as-

• Firstly, it may lead to delays and complications in the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor project, affecting timelines and investments. This was reported by The Hindu Business Line. 
• Secondly, the war is likely to affect market sentiments and India’s trade relations with the region, according to experts cited in a LinkedIn article. 
• Additionally, the escalating war between Israel and Hamas may increase the burden on Indian households, especially due to potential disruptions in the global oil market, as mentioned in a Business Today report. 

(E) Challenges and Complexities of the peace process in the Israel-Hamas war

Although we came to know- Why is Israel at war with Hamas? Reasons & impact around. But the war must end as soon as possible. However, with the following challenges, will we be able to stop the war? Let’s look at the challenges and complexities of the peace process in the Israel-Hamas war.

(E.1) Youth Perspectives on why is Israel at war with Hamas? Reasons & Impact Around

In terms of the views of Israeli and Palestinian youth on the prospects of peace, a study conducted by pollsters found that support for a non-democratic regime with unequal rights between Israelis and Palestinians has increased in Israel. This highlights a growing concern and lack of optimism among the youth about a peaceful resolution.

(E.2) Internal Challenges

Both Israeli and Palestinian societies face internal challenges that affect the peace process. These include state institution-building, religious divides, coalition politics, and educational concerns. These domestic concerns can impact the ability to reach a sustainable peace agreement. They know quite well that why is Israel at war with Hamas? Reasons & Impact around. But the internal challenges make it difficult to attain peace in the holy land.

(E.3) Israeli Settlements

One of the key obstacles to peace lies in the issue of Israeli settlements. Extensive Israeli settlements in the occupied territories have raised concerns and made it difficult to establish a Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders. Some experts argue that these settlements have hampered the prospects for a two-state solution. This explains the difficulty of attaining peace.

(F) Prospects of Peace: Challenges & Efforts

To address the challenges mentioned in the above section, potential solutions have been proposed.   Let’s look at how the world is looking forward to bringing peace to the region.

(F.1) Two-State Solution

It envisions the establishment of an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel. This approach has been widely supported by the international community. Efforts have been made to resume negotiations between the two parties and work towards a comprehensive peace agreement based on this framework.

(F.2) Building Trust & Cooperation

Additionally, enhancing mutual trust and dialogue between Israeli and Palestinian leaders, fostering economic cooperation, and addressing security concerns are essential components in the pursuit of peace. International mediation and support from the global community also play a significant role in facilitating the peace process.

(G) Wrap-Up: Future outlook of Israel-Hamas Conflict

By now, you have understood- why is Israel at war with Hamas? Reasons & Impact around. However, it is important to note that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is a complex and multi-faceted issue. There are differing perspectives and narratives from various stakeholders regarding the Israel-Hamas, Israel-Gaza, or Israel-Palestine conflict.

The impacts of the war highlight the interconnectedness of global economies and how conflicts in one region can have ripple effects on others. It is crucial for India to closely monitor the situation and work towards mitigating any negative consequences on its economy and trade relations.

Achieving a lasting peace requires sustained efforts, compromises, and a genuine commitment from all parties involved. Let’s hope that the war will end soon!