The recent conflict between Israel and Hamas resulted in 2,150 deaths, with Palestine’s Ministry of Health reporting 950 Palestinian casualties.
CNN states at least 1,200 Israelis have died. These numbers don’t include 1,500 Hamas fighters claimed found by Israel.
Hamas initiated a significant attack on Israel on October 7. In response, Israel launched airstrikes in Gaza.
Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, declared war on Hamas, aiming to dismantle the group.
(Over 2,000 Dead in Recent Israel-Hamas Clashes – Shooting battles on the border of Lebanon and Israel)
On October 9, Israel’s Defense Minister, Yoav Gallant, imposed a total blockade on Gaza. He said that essentials like electricity and food won’t be supplied.
By October 10, Israel announced control over its towns near the Gaza border.
Understanding the Situation
This conflict is an escalation of a long-term territorial dispute. Both Israelis and Palestinians claim this land for its historical and religious importance.
Hamas, a Sunni Islamist group, has governed Gaza since 2007. They won elections against Fatah in 2006. Most people know Hamas for its armed struggle for Gaza’s independence.
This region has seen many conflicts over the years. There have been confrontations between Israel and Hamas in multiple years, going back to 2008.
The United Nations partitioned Palestine into Arab and Jewish territories. The aim was to create a Jewish state. However, Arabs rejected this, claiming they had less resourceful land.