Israel battered Gaza on Sunday its bloodiest attack in decades when Hamas fighters rampaged through Israeli towns killing 600 and abducting dozens more, as the spiralling violence threatened a new war in west Asia.

The history between Israel and Hamas is complex and marked by conflict, territorial disputes, and political tension. Here's a brief overview:

Background:

1. Establishment of Israel (1948): The State of Israel was established in 1948, leading to conflicts with neighbouring Arab states.

Rise of Palestinian Nationalism:  Arab-Israeli Wars: Several wars occurred between Israel and Arab states, leading to changes in territorial boundaries.

Formation of the PLO (Palestine Liberation Organization): 1964: The PLO was formed, aiming to represent Palestinian interests and achieve self-determination.

Hamas Emergence: 1987-1993: The First Intifada, a Palestinian uprising against Israeli rule, occurred. During this time, Hamas, an Islamist political and militant organization, emerged in the Gaza Strip and West Bank.

Peace Process: 1993: The Oslo Accords between Israel and the PLO aimed at resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. However, issues persisted, leading to tensions and violence.

Hamas' Political Rise: 2006: Hamas won parliamentary elections in the Palestinian territories. This led to a power struggle with Fatah, the political party associated with the PLO.

Gaza Takeover: 2007: Hamas took control of the Gaza Strip after violent clashes with Fatah forces.

Conflict Periods: Israeli-Gaza Conflicts: There have been several conflicts between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, marked by periods of intense violence.

• 2008-2009: Operation Cast Lead
• 2012: Operation Pillar of Defense
• 2014: Operation Protective Edge

Ongoing Tensions: Blockade of Gaza: Israel imposed a blockade on Gaza, controlling the movement of goods and people in and out of the territory, citing security concerns.

Peace Efforts and Ceasefires: International Mediation: Various attempts at peace and ceasefire agreements have been made, often brokered by Egypt or other international actors.

Current Situation: Tensions persist, with occasional flare-ups of violence. The core issues, including the status of Jerusalem, Palestinian refugees, and borders, remain unresolved.

Israel battered Gaza on Sunday its bloodiest attack in decades when Hamas fighters rampaged through Israeli towns killing 600 and abducting dozens more, as the spiralling violence threatened a new war in west Asia.

The history between Israel and Hamas is complex and marked by conflict, territorial disputes, and political tension. Here's a brief overview:

Hamas, or the Islamic Resistance Movement, is a Palestinian Islamist organization that was founded in 1987 during the First Intifada, a Palestinian uprising against Israeli rule. Here are key aspects of Hamas:

1. Founding and Objectives:
• Hamas was founded as an offshoot of the Muslim Brotherhood and emerged as a resistance movement against Israeli occupation in the Palestinian territories. Its founding charter expresses its commitment to the liberation of all of historical Palestine and the establishment of an Islamic state in the area.
2. Political and Militant Wing:
• Hamas has both a political and a military/militant wing. The political wing engages in governance and social services in areas where it operates, while the military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, is responsible for armed resistance against Israel.
3. Governing Gaza:
• After winning the Palestinian legislative elections in 2006, Hamas took control of the Gaza Strip in 2007 after violent clashes with its rival faction, Fatah. Since then, Hamas has governed Gaza independently of the Palestinian Authority, which is based in the West Bank.
4. Challenges and Isolation:
• Hamas faces challenges, including political isolation by certain countries and organizations that label it as a terrorist organization. The United States, the European Union, and Israel designate Hamas as a terrorist group.
5. Armed Conflict with Israel:
• Hamas has been involved in multiple conflicts with Israel. These conflicts often involve rocket attacks by Hamas from the Gaza Strip and Israeli military responses. Major conflicts include Operation Cast Lead (2008-2009), Operation Pillar of Defense (2012), and Operation Protective Edge (2014).
6. Ceasefires and Periods of Calm:
• At times, there have been ceasefire agreements brokered by Egypt or other international actors to reduce hostilities between Hamas and Israel. However, these ceasefires have been fragile and subject to periodic breakdowns.
7. Social Services and Governance:
• In Gaza, Hamas operates as a de facto governing authority, providing social services, education, and health care. However, its governance has been criticized for authoritarian practices, and the region faces economic challenges.
8. Reconciliation Efforts:
• Periodic efforts have been made to reconcile differences between Hamas and Fatah to create a unified Palestinian government. However, longstanding political and ideological differences have hindered sustained reconciliation.
9. Role of Qatar and Iran:
• Qatar and Iran have been significant regional players in providing political and financial support to Hamas. Qatar has been involved in mediation efforts, while Iran has provided military and financial assistance.
10. Changing Dynamics:
• The geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East have influenced Hamas's relationships. Changes in regional alliances and power structures have affected its standing in the broader context of Middle Eastern politics.

The situation involving Hamas is complex, and perceptions of the organization vary widely. While some view Hamas as a legitimate resistance movement fighting against what it perceives as occupation, others criticize its tactics, including its use of violence against civilians, as counterproductive to the pursuit of a peaceful resolution to the Israel-Palestine conflict.

1. Gaza Strip:

Hamas Control: Hamas, an Islamist political and militant group, has been in control of the Gaza Strip since 2007. The territory has faced economic challenges and is subject to an Israeli blockade.

2. Rocket Attacks and Airstrikes:

Rocket Attacks by Hamas: Periodically, Hamas launches rockets from the Gaza Strip into Israeli territory.

Israeli Airstrikes: In response, Israel conducts airstrikes on targets in the Gaza Strip, often targeting Hamas infrastructure and military installations.

3. Ceasefires and Escalations:

Ceasefires: International actors, including Egypt and the United Nations, have at times brokered ceasefires between Israel and Hamas. These agreements are aimed at halting hostilities and improving conditions in Gaza.

Escalations: However, ceasefires have been fragile, and the situation can escalate quickly, leading to renewed violence.

4. Humanitarian Concerns:

Casualties: The conflicts have resulted in casualties on both sides, including civilians. There have been concerns about the impact on the civilian population in the Gaza Strip, which faces challenges related to infrastructure, healthcare, and living conditions.

Displacement: Conflicts have led to the displacement of people in both Gaza and Israel.

5. International Reactions:

Global Response: The conflict has drawn international attention and condemnation. Various countries and international organizations have expressed concerns and called for de-escalation and a peaceful resolution.

6. Jerusalem and Religious Sites:

Jerusalem Tensions: Tensions over the status of Jerusalem, a city considered holy by multiple religions, have been a recurring factor in the conflict.

Al-Aqsa Mosque: Events around the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem have triggered tensions. Disputes over access to religious sites have been a source of friction.

7. Evictions and Settlements:

East Jerusalem: Disputes over the eviction of Palestinian families in East Jerusalem, particularly in the Sheikh Jarrah neighbourhood, have fuelled tensions.

Israeli Settlements: The construction of Israeli settlements in the West Bank has been a contentious issue, seen by Palestinians and much of the international community as an obstacle to peace.

8. International Efforts for Peace:

Peace Process: Various attempts at a peace process have taken place over the years, but reaching a comprehensive and lasting agreement has proven challenging.

The Israel-Palestine conflict has seen various international efforts aimed at mediating and facilitating a peaceful resolution. Over the years, multiple countries, regional organizations, and international entities have been involved in these efforts. Here are some key examples:

1. United Nations (UN):
• The United Nations has played a central role in addressing the Israel-Palestine conflict. The UN has established various bodies, including the United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process (UNSCO), to oversee and facilitate peace efforts.
2. United States:
• The United States has historically been involved in mediating between Israel and the Palestinians. However, its role has been a subject of debate, with varying levels of involvement depending on the administration.
3. European Union (EU):
• The European Union has been actively engaged in efforts to promote peace in the region. The EU supports a two-state solution and has provided financial assistance for Palestinian development projects.
4. Russia:
• Russia has, at times, engaged in diplomatic efforts to address the Israel-Palestine conflict. It has participated in multilateral forums and discussions on the issue.
5. Quartet on the Middle East:
• The Quartet on the Middle East is a diplomatic initiative involving the United Nations, the European Union, the United States, and Russia. The Quartet aims to mediate the peace process and promote dialogue between Israel and the Palestinians.
6. Arab League:
• The Arab League, representing Arab countries in the region, has been involved in various peace initiatives. Arab countries have proposed peace plans and supported diplomatic efforts for a comprehensive solution.
7. Egypt:
• Egypt has historically played a role in mediating between Israel and Palestinian factions. It has helped broker ceasefires and has been involved in discussions related to Gaza.
8. Jordan:
• Jordan has had a peace treaty with Israel since 1994. While the relationship has faced challenges, Jordan has occasionally been involved in diplomatic efforts related to the Israel-Palestine conflict.
9. Norway:
• Norway facilitated the Oslo Accords in the early 1990s, which marked a significant development in the peace process between Israel and the Palestinians.
10. International NGOs and Civil Society:
• Various international non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and civil society groups have played a role in promoting dialogue, understanding, and humanitarian assistance in the region.

Despite numerous international mediation efforts, a comprehensive and lasting resolution to the Israel-Palestine conflict remains elusive. The situation is complex, with deep-rooted historical, political, and religious dimensions. The effectiveness of international mediation efforts often depends on the willingness of the parties involved to engage in dialogue and make compromises for peace.

The relationship between India and Israel has evolved over the years and has been characterized by growing cooperation in various fields. Here are some key aspects of the India-Israel relationship:

1. Establishment of Diplomatic Relations:
• Formal diplomatic relations between India and Israel were established in 1992. Prior to that, India did not have official diplomatic ties with Israel.
2. Strategic Partnership:
• The two countries describe their relationship as a "strategic partnership." The partnership encompasses cooperation in areas such as defense, agriculture, science and technology, water management, and counterterrorism.
3. Defense and Military Cooperation:
• One of the significant aspects of the India-Israel relationship is defense cooperation. Israel has been a major supplier of defense equipment and technology to India. Both countries engage in joint military exercises and share expertise in areas such as counter-terrorism and intelligence.
4. Agriculture and Water Management:
• India has shown interest in Israel's expertise in agriculture and water management. Israeli agricultural technology has been implemented in various Indian states to improve crop yields and water efficiency.
5. Science and Technology Collaboration:
• India and Israel collaborate in science and technology, including research and development projects. This collaboration spans areas such as space, cybersecurity, and innovation.
6. Economic Ties:
• While economic ties between India and Israel have grown, there is still room for further expansion. Both countries have expressed the desire to enhance economic cooperation, trade, and investment.
7. Cultural and People-to-People Ties:
• Cultural exchanges and people-to-people ties have been encouraged to foster a better understanding between the two nations. Initiatives in education and tourism have contributed to building stronger connections.
8. Political Engagement:
• High-level visits between leaders of India and Israel have taken place, reflecting the diplomatic engagement between the two nations. Bilateral discussions often cover a range of issues, including regional security and economic cooperation.
9. United Nations Voting Patterns:
• While India historically supported the Palestinian cause at the United Nations, there has been a shift in recent years. India's voting patterns have become more balanced, reflecting a nuanced approach to the Israel-Palestine conflict.
10. Challenges and Opportunities:
• The relationship between India and Israel has faced challenges, including geopolitical considerations and historical factors. However, both countries have emphasized the commonality of democratic values and shared concerns, leading to opportunities for collaboration.

The India-Israel relationship is multifaceted, and both countries continue to explore ways to deepen their engagement across various sectors.

India has traditionally maintained a nuanced and balanced approach to the Israel-Palestine conflict. Here are some key points related to India's engagement with the Palestinian cause:

1. Historical Support for Palestinian Rights:
• Historically, India has been a vocal supporter of the Palestinian cause and the rights of the Palestinian people to self-determination. India's support for Palestine dates back to its pre-independence era.
2. Recognition of Palestinian Statehood:
• In 1988, India officially recognized the State of Palestine. This recognition was reiterated in subsequent years, and India has consistently supported the establishment of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state.
3. Diplomatic Relations:
• India has maintained diplomatic relations with both Israel and Palestine. The Palestinian Authority has an embassy in New Delhi, and India has a representative office in Ramallah, the de facto capital of the Palestinian Authority.
4. United Nations and International Forums:
• India has consistently supported the Palestinian cause in international forums, including the United Nations. India's positions at the UN often align with resolutions supporting the rights of the Palestinian people.
5. Development Assistance:
• India has provided economic and developmental assistance to the Palestinian territories. This assistance includes contributions to developmental projects, infrastructure, and capacity building.
6. People-to-People Ties:
• India has engaged in people-to-people ties with the Palestinian people, promoting cultural exchanges, educational cooperation, and other initiatives to strengthen understanding and friendship.
7. Balanced Diplomacy:
• While India maintains strong ties with Israel, it has also emphasized the importance of a negotiated and peaceful resolution to the Israel-Palestine conflict. India's diplomatic approach seeks to balance its relationships with Israel and the Palestinian territories.
8. Shift in Voting Patterns at the UN:
• In recent years, there has been a shift in India's voting patterns at the United Nations on resolutions related to Israel and Palestine. While historically supporting resolutions critical of Israel, India has started to abstain from certain votes, reflecting a nuanced approach.
9. Regional Dynamics:
• India's engagement with Israel and the Palestinian territories is influenced by broader regional dynamics. The complex geopolitical landscape of the Middle East and South Asia plays a role in shaping India's diplomatic approach.

India's approach to the Israel-Palestine conflict is reflective of its commitment to a two-state solution and the belief that a comprehensive and lasting resolution should be based on negotiations between the parties involved. The dynamics of India's engagement with the region may evolve based on geopolitical developments and diplomatic considerations.