Hamas

Hamas, full name Harakat al-Muqawama al-Islamiya (Islamic Resistance Movement), is a Palestinian Islamist political and militant organization. It was founded in 1987 during the First Intifada as the Palestinian branch of the Muslim Brotherhood. Its original aims included resisting Israeli occupation and seeking political change in Palestinian society through both social service networks and armed activity. The 1988 charter called for the destruction of Israel, while a 2017 policy document indicated acceptance of a Palestinian state along the 1967 lines without recognizing Israel, continuing to emphasize the right of return for Palestinian refugees.

Organizationally, Hamas maintains a political bureau, a military wing—the Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades—and extensive social services that operate schools, clinics, and charitable programs. The group has significant popular support in the Gaza Strip and has participated in Palestinian politics since the 1990s. In the 2006 Palestinian legislative elections, Hamas won a plurality, leading to a violent split with Fatah and, by 2007, to Hamas's de facto control of the Gaza Strip.

In terms of activities, Hamas has conducted rocket and cross-border attacks against Israel and has engaged in periodic wars and escalations with Israeli forces. The Gaza conflict has produced recurrent humanitarian and security challenges, compounded by blockades and internal political tensions within Palestinian society.

International status varies. Hamas is designated as a terrorist organization by several countries, including the United States and Israel, with many European governments listing its military wing as a terrorist entity. Others engage with Hamas as a political actor, particularly in efforts to influence governance in Gaza or advance Palestinian reconciliation, though such engagement faces significant obstacles. Leadership is divided between the political bureau, led by Ismail Haniyeh (based outside Gaza), and a Gaza-based leadership headed by Yahya Sinwar.