Israel and Hamas confrontation History Timeline and Biographies

1987

Founding of Hamas

Hamas, an acronym for Harakat al-Muqawama al-Islamiya (Islamic Resistance Movement), was founded during the First Intifada. It emerged as a significant player in the Israel and Hamas confrontation, advocating for the establishment of an Islamic state in historical Palestine.

1993

Oslo Accords

The Oslo Accords were signed between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). While Hamas opposed the accords, viewing them as a betrayal of Palestinian rights, the agreement marked a significant milestone in the Israel and Hamas confrontation.

2000

Second Intifada

The Second Intifada, also known as the Al-Aqsa Intifada, began. Hamas played a central role in the uprising, carrying out numerous attacks against Israeli targets, further intensifying the Israel and Hamas confrontation.

2005

Israeli Disengagement from Gaza

Israel unilaterally withdrew from the Gaza Strip, evacuating all Israeli settlers and military forces. This event marked a significant shift in the Israel and Hamas confrontation, with Hamas gaining more influence in Gaza.

2006

Hamas Wins Palestinian Legislative Elections

Hamas won a decisive victory in the Palestinian legislative elections. This victory led to increased tensions with Israel and the international community, impacting the dynamics of the Israel and Hamas confrontation.

2007

Hamas Takes Control of Gaza

Hamas forcibly took control of the Gaza Strip after violent clashes with Fatah, the rival Palestinian faction. This event significantly escalated the Israel and Hamas confrontation, leading to a blockade of Gaza by Israel and Egypt.

2008

Operation Cast Lead

Israel launched Operation Cast Lead, a military offensive against Hamas in Gaza. The operation aimed to stop rocket fire into southern Israel and lasted for three weeks, resulting in significant casualties and damage, further intensifying the Israel and Hamas confrontation.

2012

Operation Pillar of Defense

Israel launched Operation Pillar of Defense in response to increased rocket fire from Gaza. The eight-day operation targeted Hamas infrastructure and leadership, marking another violent episode in the Israel and Hamas confrontation.

2014

Operation Protective Edge

Operation Protective Edge was launched by Israel in response to the kidnapping and murder of three Israeli teenagers and subsequent rocket fire from Gaza. The 50-day conflict resulted in significant casualties and destruction, highlighting the deep-seated nature of the Israel and Hamas confrontation.

2018

Great March of Return

Palestinians in Gaza began the Great March of Return, a series of protests along the Gaza-Israel border. The protests often turned violent, with Israeli forces responding with live fire. This event marked another intense period in the Israel and Hamas confrontation.

2019

Rocket Attacks and Israeli Retaliation

A series of rocket attacks from Gaza into Israel prompted retaliatory strikes by the Israeli military. This cycle of violence underscored the ongoing volatility in the Israel and Hamas confrontation.

2021

May 2021 Conflict

A significant escalation occurred in May 2021, triggered by tensions in East Jerusalem. Hamas launched rockets into Israel, leading to an 11-day conflict marked by extensive airstrikes and rocket fire, resulting in numerous casualties and widespread destruction.

2022

Ceasefire Agreements

Various ceasefire agreements were attempted to stabilize the situation between Israel and Hamas, though sporadic violence and rocket fire continued, reflecting the fragile nature of peace in the Israel and Hamas confrontation.

2023

Renewed Clashes

Renewed clashes erupted between Israeli forces and Hamas militants, leading to another round of violence. Efforts for a long-term ceasefire continued to face significant challenges, highlighting the persistent instability in the Israel and Hamas confrontation.

2024

Ongoing Tensions

As of 2024, the Israel and Hamas confrontation remains unresolved, with periodic escalations and attempts at negotiation. The conflict continues to impact the lives of millions, underscoring the need for a sustainable and peaceful resolution.