What is the historical background of Hamas?

# Historical Background of Hamas Hamas, an acronym for **Harakat al-Muqawama al-Islamiyya** or the **Islamic Resistance Movement**, is a significant political and militant organization in the Palestinian territories. It originated as an offshoot of the **Muslim Brotherhood** in **1987**, during the First Intifada, a Palestinian uprising against Israeli occupation. Its founders, including **Sheik Ahmad Yassin**, were motivated by a combination of religious conviction and a desire for Palestinian self-determination.[^1][^4] ## Early Development The roots of Hamas can be traced back to the late **1970s**, when grassroots activists established various social services in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, including charities, clinics, and schools aimed at supporting the local population and spreading Islamic values.[^4] These activities laid the groundwork for Hamas's later political and military actions. The group's formal establishment in **December 1987** coincided with rising tensions between Palestinians and Israeli authorities, marking a pivotal moment in the history of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.[^4] ## Ideological Foundations Hamas's ideology is deeply intertwined with its opposition to the state of Israel, which it views as an illegitimate occupier of Palestinian land. The organization's charter, published in **1988**, explicitly calls for the establishment of an Islamic state in all of historic Palestine, rejecting any compromise with Israel. This ideological stance has been a significant factor in its appeal among many Palestinians who feel disillusioned by the ongoing occupation and previous peace processes.[^3] ## Political Ascendancy Hamas gained significant political power in **2006** when it won a majority in the Palestinian legislative elections, defeating the **Fatah** party, which had been the dominant political force in the Palestinian territories. This victory led to increased tensions between Hamas and Fatah, culminating in violence in **2007** that resulted in Hamas's control over the **Gaza Strip**. Since then, Hamas has been the de facto governing authority in Gaza, managing a territory under blockade by Israel and Egypt.[^1][^3][^4] ## International Designation and Conflicts The international community has largely viewed Hamas with suspicion and has classified it as a terrorist organization, notably the **United States** and the **European Union**. This designation stems from numerous attacks against Israeli civilians, including suicide bombings and rocket fire, which Hamas has executed over the years in what it describes as resistance against occupation. Conversely, some view Hamas as a legitimate resistance movement fighting against what they perceive as colonial oppression.[^1][^3] ## Ongoing Impact and Current Status Hamas's governance in Gaza has been marked by numerous conflicts with Israel, including several major military confrontations since 2008. These conflicts have resulted in significant casualties and humanitarian crises within Gaza, further complicating the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The group remains a pivotal player in Palestinian politics, frequently at odds with Fatah and other Palestinian factions. Its stance and actions continue to shape the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East, affecting relations among various regional and international stakeholders.[^2][^3] ## Conclusion In summary, Hamas emerged from a unique historical context defined by socio-political dynamics, religious fervor, and the struggle against Israeli occupation. Its evolution from a grassroots social movement to a governing authority and militant organization reflects the complexities of Palestinian politics and the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Understanding Hamas's history is crucial for grasping current events in the region and the ongoing challenges to peace in the Middle East. --- [^1]: [What Is Hamas?](https://cfr.org/backgrounder/what-hamas) [^2]: [The Hidden History of Hamas - The National Interest](https://nationalinterest.org/feature/hidden-history-hamas-207266) [^3]: [What is Hamas and why is it fighting with Israel in Gaza?](https://bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-67039975) [^4]: [History Illustrated: The story of Hamas and its fight for ...](https://aljazeera.com/gallery/2023/10/11/history-illustrated-the-story-of-hamas-and-its-fight-for-palestine)