Hamas, a Palestinian militant organization, recently carried out a significant attack on Israel, resulting in casualties and sparking conflict in the region. This article provides insight into Hamas, its ideology, charter, funding, and its connection to Iran.
1. What is Hamas’ Ideology?
Hamas, short for Harakat al-Muqawama al-Islamiya (Islamic Resistance Movement), is committed to armed resistance against Israel and aims to establish an Islamic Palestinian state in place of Israel.
2. The Hamas Charter
Hamas’ 1988 charter explicitly calls for the destruction of Israel and views all of Israel and Palestine as Muslim lands, challenging the legitimacy of Jewish claims to the region.
3. Funding Sources
Hamas receives material and financial support from Iran, which has been its primary backer for decades. Iran provides weapons, training, and financial support, though direct involvement in recent attacks remains unconfirmed.
4. Iran’s Support
Leaders of Hamas and Islamic Jihad frequently visit Iran, where they receive support and meet with top Iranian officials, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iran openly supports the Palestinian cause and their resistance.
5. Locations
Hamas primarily operates in Gaza but also has a presence in the West Bank, Doha (Qatar), Cairo (Egypt), and Palestinian refugee camps in Lebanon.
6. Palestinian Roots
Hamas originated in 1987 as the Palestinian branch of the Muslim Brotherhood, an Islamist political movement founded in Egypt in 1928. In 2007, Hamas ousted the Palestinian Authority from power in Gaza.
7. Designation as a Terrorist Group
Hamas has been designated a foreign terrorist organization by the U.S. State Department since October 1997, making it illegal for Americans to provide support to the group.
8. Differences Between Hamas and Hezbollah
While both Hamas and Hezbollah are Iran-backed and oppose Israel, they have distinct geographic locations and religious affiliations. Hezbollah is based in southern Lebanon, adjacent to northern Israel, and operates as a militia alongside Lebanon’s armed forces. Hamas is predominantly Sunni, whereas Hezbollah is Shiite.
In summary, Hamas is a Palestinian militant group with a longstanding history of resistance against Israel and a commitment to establishing an Islamic Palestinian state. Its financial and material support from Iran is a significant factor in the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.