ON October 7, Hamas’ al-Qassam Brigades, a Palestinian movement group, initiated attacks against the Israeli occupation.
This article delves into the reasons behind this significant action, as outlined by its top military commander, Mohammed Deif.
Historical context
The core motivation for Hamas’ actions lies in the historical backdrop.
According to Deif, the Israeli occupation is seen as a colonial force that has occupied Palestinian territory, displaced its people, destroyed towns and villages, and committed numerous massacres against the Palestinian population. These actions are considered in violation of international norms, laws, and human rights conventions.
Unheeded warnings
Hamas had previously warned the Israeli occupation against continuing their actions and appealed to world leaders to intervene.
The group urged the international community to pressure Israel to comply with international law and resolutions. However, these warnings were not heeded, and no significant international actions were taken.
Escalation in Jerusalem
One key factor leading to the attack was the escalation in occupied Jerusalem.
The Israeli occupation forces intensified their raids into the al-Aqsa Mosque, one of Islam’s holiest sites. These actions included desecrating sacred sites and attacking worshippers, particularly women, children, and the elderly.
Palestinian citizens were banned from accessing the mosque, while Israeli settlers were allowed access and conducted religious rituals, expressing intentions to build a temple on the mosque’s ruins.
Religious insults
The situation escalated further with incidents involving religious insults. Insults to Prophet Muhammad, the tearing of the Quran, and bringing dogs into the al-Aqsa Mosque were cited.
Such actions were seen as provocations and infringements on the sanctity of the holy site.
Land disputes
Hamas also highlighted ongoing land disputes, with Israeli settlers attempting to impose a “fait accompli” by seizing Palestinian homes and property. This land dispute contributes to the overall tensions in the region.
Humanitarian concerns
The situation is further complicated by humanitarian concerns. Hundreds of Palestinian citizens have been killed and wounded by the Israeli occupation and colonial settlers.
Additionally, thousands of Palestinian detainees are held in Israeli prisons, where they allege inhumane treatment, including oppression, torture, and humiliation.
Calls for a humanitarian swap deal were reportedly rejected by the Israeli occupation.
West Bank incidents
The West Bank has not been immune to these tensions. The Israeli occupation forces frequently storm Palestinian towns and villages, leading to raids, ransacking of homes, and the detention of Palestinian citizens. This has resulted in the deaths and injuries of hundreds of Palestinians.
To conclude, Hamas’s decision to initiate an attack against the Israeli occupation in October 2023 is rooted in a complex web of historical grievances, ongoing tensions, and perceived injustices.
The group’s leadership, as represented by Mohammed Deif, cited a range of factors, from historical dispossession to religious provocations and humanitarian concerns.
This event underscores the deeply entrenched issues in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the challenges faced by both sides in seeking a resolution. – October 24, 2023
Abbod Khwlidi is an observer of the conflict in the Middle East and a reader of Scoop