Hamas launched its biggest assault on Israel in years, firing rockets from Gaza and sending fighters across the border. In response, Israel declared a war footing and launched strikes against Hamas targets in Gaza. Gunbattles between Palestinian fighters and security forces were reported in southern Israel.
The conflict between Israel and Palestinian groups in the Gaza Strip has seen several major flare-ups. It began in 2005 when Israeli forces unilaterally withdrew from Gaza, leaving it under the control of the Palestinian Authority. In 2006, Hamas won a majority of seats in a Palestinian legislative election, leading to aid cuts from Israel and the U.S. due to Hamas’ refusal to renounce violence and recognize Israel. In 2007, Hamas took over Gaza in a brief civil war, ousting Fatah forces loyal to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. In 2008, Israel launched a 22-day military offensive in Gaza after rocket attacks from Palestinians. A ceasefire was eventually agreed upon, but not before significant casualties on both sides.
In 2012, Israel killed Hamas’ military chief of staff, leading to eight days of rocket fire and air strikes. In 2014, the kidnapping and killing of three Israeli teenagers by Hamas sparked a seven-week war that resulted in numerous casualties. In 2018, Palestinian protests began at Gaza’s border with Israel, leading to clashes and further violence. In 2021, tensions during Ramadan led to clashes between Palestinians and Israeli security forces. Hamas launched rockets from Gaza, and Israel responded with air strikes, resulting in an 11-day conflict. In 2022, Israeli air strikes killed a senior Islamic Jihad commander, leading to retaliatory rocket fire. In 2023, Islamic Jihad fired rockets after Israeli troops raided a refugee camp, and Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel.
The recent attack by Hamas in October 2023 prompted Israel to declare a war footing. Israel carried out strikes targeting Hamas in Gaza and called up reservists. The conflict continues to escalate, with both sides engaging in violence.
Compiled by Tom Perry and Angus McDowall; Editing by Jan Harvey
