Hamas

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Hamas is a Palestinian Sunni-Islamic militant and political organization founded in 1987 during the First Intifada, an uprising against Israeli occupation. It originated as an offshoot of the Muslim Brotherhood and its name is an acronym for "Harakat al-Muqawama al-Islamiyya" or "Islamic Resistance Movement." Hamas' stated goal is the establishment of an Islamic state in historic Palestine, which includes present-day Israel. Its charter initially called for the destruction of Israel, though in 2017, Hamas issued a political document that softened its stance, accepting a Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders but still refusing to formally recognize Israel.

Hamas operates as both a political party and a militant group. In 2006, it won a majority in the Palestinian Legislative Council elections, leading to tensions with the rival political faction Fatah. After a brief but violent conflict in 2007, Hamas took control of the Gaza Strip, where it remains the de facto governing authority. Under its rule, the Gaza Strip has experienced repeated conflicts with Israel, with Hamas conducting rocket attacks and other operations against Israeli targets. Israel, the United States, the European Union, and several other countries classify Hamas as a terrorist organization due to its attacks on civilians and use of violence to achieve its aims.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza, where Hamas governs, has been challenging, exacerbated by blockades and repeated military operations. Hamas also provides social services and operates charities, which has contributed to its political support among Palestinians.