The Gaza Strip and the Israel-Hamas Conflict: From 2008 until Nowadays

Abstract

The paper analyzes the relations between Hamas and Israel through a series of conflicts that occurred from 2008 until nowadays. Thus, the study aims at the chronological presentation of the Israeli military offensives from 2008 to 2014 (known as code: Cast Lead, 2008–09; Pillar of Defense, 2012; Protective Edge, 2014), supplemented by the assessment of the conflict situation after 2014 and taking into account of the escalation of current tensions (Operation Guardians of the Walls, May 2021). The two Palestinian territories–the Gaza Strip (ruled by Hamas since June 2007) and the West Bank (divided into three zones – A, B, and C, following the 1995 interim peace agreement–over which the Palestinian Authority exercises partial control) – are areas of significant security interest (Fig. 1). Here, local tensions can erupt at any time and create a state of conflict that is difficult to manage. This situation was visible again in the Gaza Strip in May 2021, when Hamas launched missiles at major Israeli cities, and– in response, the Israeli army carried out a new military operation known as code name Guardian of the Walls. As such, this area continues to be of significant interest in local, regional, and international security and requires increased attention from specialists and analysts who assess the course of events in this area.