Understanding the War in Gaza between Israel and Hamas 

On October 7th 2023, Hamas terrorists launched an attack against innocent Israeli citizens at multiple locations - Nova Music Festival, Kibbutz Kfar Aza, and Kibbutz Be’eri - that saw the brutal and savage murder of more than 1,200 civilians. While armed conflict between Israel and Hamas, such as exchanged rocket fire, was common throughout the 21st century, this attack marked the first time since 1948 that Arab militants invaded Israeli territory. 

Was this an act of defiance against the “occupation”? Did Hamas believe that such an attack could unite the Arab world against Israel to push Israel into the sea? 

I believe that this was a calculated attack that looked to achieve the following: 

1. Deal tremendous violence and terror on Israeli civilians
2. Take mass hostages that would force Israel to return Palestinian terrorist in hostage negotiations that could lead future attacks against Israel 
3. Have Israel respond to the terrorist attacks with tremendous force that would show Israel as they aggressor dealing out disproportionate violence against the Palestinians 
4. Engage the populace, international media and world leaders to pressure Israel into actions beneficial to Hamas and the Palestinians (giving over land, etc.) 

I believe Hamas knew that they could not overpower Israel militarily, after all, Israel has far superior military technology, combat numbers, and the backing of United States forces. However, Hamas understands the international populace and the power of the media. Hamas military fortresses are strategically located in densely populated civilian locations, such as hospitals. In fact, there have been reports that top Hamas military operatives would be dressed as doctors and nurses within hospitals to maintain control of these areas. 

Understanding that Israel lost more than 1,000 civilians, Hamas knew a strong Israeli response was in the cards. A response that would aim to eliminate Hamas leadership, militias, and infrastructure. Thus, when Israel responded with targeted rockets, some of which resulted in civilian casualties, Hamas made sure to activate western media to highlight what was happening. Despite the noise being made by Hamas sympathizers across the world, world leadership is privy to the facts of the situation and are not fooled by Hamas-manipulated media. Leaders across the West continue to stand with Israel and defend their right to self-defense. 

It is important to mention that while targeted missiles cause significant damage, they were being used to target Hamas militants and NOT civilians. That being said, war is chaotic. Civilians do get caught in the cross-fire. Avoiding civilians becomes that much more difficult when Hamas uses women and children as human shields. 

The Palestinians of Gaza are victims here. While many of them have been brainwashed by their education systems, developed by Hamas, others desire a life of peace and quiet, not controlled by the demands of Hamas leadership.