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BETWEEN ANCIENT LANDS & MODERN POLITICS: THE ISRAEL-HAMAS CONUNDRUM

By P Mohan Chandran


What lies beneath the surface of one of the most prolonged and complex geopolitical conflicts of our time? How did an ancient land, steeped in history, become a modern political minefield?


The Israel-Hamas conflict isn't merely a geopolitical dispute; it's a mosaic of cultural, religious, and political intricacies interwoven over centuries. While recent escalations capture headlines, the roots run deep, tracing back millennia.


The Historical Backdrop


At the heart of the conflict lies the historic land of Palestine, a region revered by three major religions: Judaism, Islam, and Christianity. Over centuries, empires from the Romans to the Ottomans have sought control over this strategic and religious epicenter.


In the 20th century, with the fall of the Ottoman Empire after WWI, Britain took over Palestine. Amid increasing Jewish immigration, driven by Zionist aspirations and fleeing European persecution, tensions between Jews and Arabs began to rise. The United Nations, in 1947, proposed a two-state solution, envisioning an independent Jewish and Palestinian state. However, the path wasn't that simple.


The Genesis of the Dispute


The declaration of the State of Israel in 1948 catalyzed the first Arab-Israeli war. While Israel expanded its territory, Palestinians found themselves displaced, leading to a diaspora still influential today. Over the decades, several wars and intifadas (uprisings) punctuated the landscape, with territories like the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem turning into flashpoints.


Hamas, meaning 'zeal' in Arabic, was founded in 1987 during the First Intifada. Initially, it was seen as an alternative to the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), with its roots in the Muslim Brotherhood. Over time, Hamas's resistance, sometimes violent, against Israeli occupation, gained traction, especially in the Gaza Strip.


Caught in the Crossfire


While both sides had moments of surprise, one notable episode was the sophistication of Hamas' attacks in recent confrontations. From a network of underground tunnels to the use of advanced rocketry, the group demonstrated capabilities that caught Israel off-guard. This isn't just about military strategy; it's a manifestation of the evolving nature of asymmetrical warfare in the 21st century.


Israel’s Response


Israel's military doctrine, rooted in its history of conflicts, focuses on a robust defense system. The 'Iron Dome', its anti-missile shield, has intercepted countless rockets from Gaza. Furthermore, Israel has combined aerial campaigns with intelligence operations to target Hamas' infrastructure.


However, the conflict isn't solely military. Public perception, international diplomacy, and digital warfare play pivotal roles. Both sides leverage social media, showcasing their narratives to global audiences.


Looking Ahead


The cyclical nature of the Israel-Hamas confrontations poses a thought-provoking question: Can there ever be a lasting peace? While ceasefires might bring temporary reprieve, a comprehensive solution seems elusive.


Are we looking at a future where history keeps repeating itself? Or will there be a watershed moment when both sides craft a roadmap to lasting peace? In the heart of ancient lands, can modern diplomacy pave the way for harmony? Only time will tell, but as spectators on this global stage, we must question, understand, and hope.

Can there ever be lasting peace in Israel?

  • A. Yes, mutual dialogue is the way forward.

  • B. No, there is no dialogue with terrorists.


© 2023. P Mohan Chandran. All Rights Reserved.

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