What is Hamas?

Introduction

Hamas, officially known as the Islamic Resistance Movement, is a Palestinian Sunni-Islamic fundamentalist and nationalist organization. It was founded in 1987 during the First Intifada, a Palestinian uprising against Israeli occupation of the West Bank and Gaza Strip. The organization has a complex structure that includes political, military, and social components. This article delves into the history, ideology, structure, and activities of Hamas, focusing on key aspects that define the organization.

History of Hamas

Formation and Early Years

Hamas was founded in 1987 by Sheikh Ahmed Yassin, along with Abdel Aziz al-Rantisi and other members of the Palestinian branch of the Muslim Brotherhood. The organization was established as a response to the growing discontent among Palestinians due to the Israeli occupation. Its charter, issued in 1988, calls for the establishment of an Islamic state in historic Palestine, which includes present-day Israel.

The First Intifada

The First Intifada, which began in December 1987, provided the backdrop for Hamas’ emergence. During this period, Hamas gained popularity by organizing protests, strikes, and acts of civil disobedience against Israeli forces. Unlike the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), Hamas adopted a more militant stance, refusing to recognize Israel and rejecting any peace negotiations.

Ideology and Objectives

Islamist and Nationalist Beliefs

Hamas’ ideology is a blend of Palestinian nationalism and Sunni Islamic fundamentalism. The organization seeks to liberate Palestine from Israeli occupation and establish an Islamic state governed by Sharia law. This dual commitment to nationalism and Islamism differentiates Hamas from other Palestinian factions, such as the secular PLO.

The Hamas Charter

The Hamas Charter, also known as the Covenant of the Islamic Resistance Movement, outlines the organization’s principles and goals. It declares that all of Palestine is Islamic land and that jihad (holy war) is the duty of every Muslim. The charter also rejects any political solution that recognizes the state of Israel, advocating for armed struggle as the only way to achieve Palestinian liberation.

Structure and Leadership

Political Bureau

The political bureau is the highest decision-making body in Hamas. It is responsible for setting policies, making strategic decisions, and representing the organization internationally. The head of the political bureau is the de facto leader of Hamas. Notable leaders have included Khaled Meshaal and Ismail Haniyeh.

Military Wing: The Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades

Hamas’ military wing, known as the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, conducts armed operations against Israeli targets. Established in 1991, the brigades have carried out numerous attacks, including suicide bombings, rocket strikes, and guerrilla warfare. The military wing operates independently but follows the strategic direction set by the political bureau.

Social Services and Governance

In addition to its political and military activities, Hamas operates a wide network of social services in the Gaza Strip. These services include healthcare, education, and welfare programs. Hamas also governs the Gaza Strip, having won the 2006 Palestinian legislative elections and subsequently taken control in a violent conflict with Fatah, the dominant faction in the PLO.

Hamas and the Gaza Strip

Election Victory and Control

Hamas’ victory in the 2006 elections marked a significant shift in Palestinian politics. The elections, deemed free and fair by international observers, saw Hamas winning a majority of seats in the Palestinian Legislative Council. This victory led to a power struggle with Fatah, culminating in Hamas seizing control of the Gaza Strip in 2007.

Governance Challenges

Governing the Gaza Strip has posed numerous challenges for Hamas. The region faces severe economic difficulties, partly due to the blockade imposed by Israel and Egypt. Hamas’ governance has been marked by periods of intense conflict with Israel, leading to significant destruction and humanitarian crises.

Conflict with Israel

Armed Struggle and Attacks

Hamas’ commitment to armed struggle against Israel has resulted in multiple conflicts. These include major military operations such as Operation Cast Lead (2008-2009), Operation Protective Edge (2014), and the more recent skirmishes in 2021. Hamas employs tactics such as rocket fire, tunnel warfare, and guerrilla operations against Israeli military and civilian targets.

Israeli Response

Israel views Hamas as a terrorist organization and has conducted numerous military operations to weaken its capabilities. These operations often involve airstrikes, ground incursions, and targeted assassinations of Hamas leaders. The Israeli government justifies these actions as necessary to protect its citizens from Hamas’ attacks.

International Designation and Reactions

Terrorist Designation

Hamas is designated as a terrorist organization by several countries, including the United States, the European Union, and Israel. These designations are based on Hamas’ use of violence, its targeting of civilians, and its stated goal of destroying Israel. The designation has led to various sanctions and restrictions on Hamas and its members.

International Support

Despite its designation as a terrorist organization, Hamas enjoys support from various states and non-state actors. Countries like Iran and Qatar provide financial, military, and political backing. Additionally, some international organizations and activists view Hamas as a legitimate resistance movement fighting against Israeli occupation.

Humanitarian Impact

Gaza Blockade

The blockade of the Gaza Strip, imposed by Israel and Egypt, has had a devastating impact on the region’s population. The blockade restricts the movement of people and goods, leading to shortages of essential supplies, including food, medicine, and fuel. The humanitarian situation is further exacerbated by the frequent conflicts between Hamas and Israel.

Civilian Casualties

The repeated conflicts between Hamas and Israel have resulted in significant civilian casualties on both sides. In Gaza, the densely populated urban environment means that Israeli airstrikes often lead to high numbers of civilian deaths and injuries. Conversely, Hamas’ rocket attacks on Israeli cities also put civilians at risk.

Hamas’ Political Strategy

Diplomacy and Negotiations

While Hamas publicly maintains its commitment to armed struggle, it has also engaged in diplomatic efforts. The organization has participated in several rounds of indirect negotiations with Israel, often mediated by Egypt or other regional actors. These negotiations typically focus on ceasefires, prisoner exchanges, and easing the blockade of Gaza.

Internal Politics

Hamas’ relationship with other Palestinian factions is complex. The rivalry with Fatah has often turned violent, but there have also been efforts at reconciliation. These efforts aim to present a united Palestinian front in negotiations with Israel and the international community.

Conclusion

Hamas is a multifaceted organization with deep roots in Palestinian society and politics. Its blend of nationalism and Islamism, combined with its commitment to armed struggle against Israel, has made it a significant player in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. While it faces numerous challenges, including governance issues in Gaza and international isolation, Hamas continues to be a central figure in the quest for Palestinian statehood. Understanding Hamas requires a nuanced analysis of its history, ideology, structure, and activities, all of which are crucial for comprehending its role in the broader Middle Eastern geopolitical landscape.