Hamas Launched “Al-Aqsa Storm” – Israel Declared “State of War”

Source of the Information - The Hindu, Times of India

Introduction to the News

Hamas Launched “Al-Aqsa Storm” – Israel Declared “State of War”: Yesterday, to revenge for alleged  ‘Al-Aqsa brutality’, Hamas [which alleges to be armed and supplied with ammunition by Iran], fired 5000+ rockets on the land of Israel and killed 250 Innocent Civilians of Israel Including Men, Women & Child with this terrorist attack. 

In return, Israel Initiated by declaring a “State of War” & striking back at Hamas which has led to 232 Casualties in Palestine and Wounded 1600+ individuals.

This news attracted the attention of the world media and people. This is why, in this blog, we are going to add all the aspects of this unfortunate event and will also add the timeline of the Israel and Palestine Conflicts in the simplest terms of understanding.

 

 

Brief Overview of the Situation

The situation unfolded on October 7, 2023, when the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel. The assault marked the largest and most coordinated attack against Israel in years, leading to the deaths of at least 200 people in Israel. 

The attack entailed a multifaceted approach, with Hamas gunmen infiltrating Israeli territory, a barrage of rockets fired from Gaza, and claims of hostage-taking, including senior Israeli officials.

In a swift and strong response, the Israeli military initiated retaliatory air strikes on the Gaza Strip, where at least 232 Palestinians were reported killed and over 1,600 wounded. 

Both ground engagements and aerial strikes ensued, escalating the violence. The situation has been described as the deadliest attack in Israel in years, and the most intense conflict since the Second Intifada.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared, "We are in a war and we will win it," as Israel vowed to retaliate strongly against Hamas. This surprise assault by Hamas has sparked widespread international reactions, expressions of solidarity with Israel, and concerns for the safety and well-being of civilians in the region.

 

 

Background and Rising Tensions

If we read history as it is, then we can understand that, at large, Muslims hate Jews. After the establishment of Israel country, Islamist countries left no stone untouched to harm the Jews, but this time, After facing the unfortunate holocaust, Jews became stronger and Intolerant of injustice. From that moment, Jews started to hit back.

However, the background of the conflict between Israel and Hamas is deeply rooted in longstanding political, historical, and territorial disputes. Tensions have escalated over recent years, particularly after the settlement of Israel in the West Bank and Jerusalem. This is fueled by Israeli military raids and settlement expansions.

The situation was further exacerbated by inflaming news of alleged brutality in the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound which is Islam's third holiest site. This volatile atmosphere created a breeding ground for resentment and hostility.

1.       Historical Context: The Israel-Hamas conflict is part of a broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with roots tracing back to the mid-20th century after The establishment of Israel in 1948.

2.       Occupation and Settlements: The Israeli occupation of the West Bank and the construction of settlements in Palestinian territories have been major points of contention.

3.       Al-Aqsa Mosque Incidents: Repeated clashes at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem, a site sacred to both Jews and Muslims, have heightened religious and cultural tensions.

4.       Palestinian Imprisonment: The arrest and detention of Palestinians, particularly minors, by Israeli authorities have been another source of tension.

5.       Hamas's Political Objectives: Hamas, designated as a terrorist organization by Israel and others, seeks the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.

6.       Rising Hostility: The combination of historical grievances, territorial disputes, religious sensitivities, and political objectives has created an explosive mix.

 

 

The Surprise Assault by Hamas

Launching the Biggest Attack on Israel in Years: The surprise assault by Hamas on October 7, 2023, marked a significant escalation in the Israel-Hamas conflict. In a meticulously coordinated attack, Hamas gunmen infiltrated Israeli civilian territory, launching a barrage of rockets from Gaza and claiming to have taken dozens of hostages, including senior Israeli officials.

The operation, described as the largest attack on Israel in years, resulted in 232 Israeli deaths. This audacious assault, was dubbed "Operation Al-Aqsa Storm" by Hamas. This reflected deep-seated frustrations and a bold strategic move, shaking Israel's sense of security and spotlighting the fragility of the region's stability.

 

 

Israel's Immediate Response

Military Response and Prime Minister Netanyahu's Vow to Retaliate: In response to the surprise assault by Hamas, the Israeli military swiftly launched a series of air strikes targeting the Gaza Strip.

The military operation, known as "Operation Iron Swords," aimed to neutralize the threat posed by Hamas and its armed wing.

Israeli forces targeted multiple locations associated with the Islamist group, including rocket launch sites, weapon storage facilities, and militant hideouts.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, addressing the nation from military headquarters in Tel Aviv, declared, "We are at war." He vowed to make the enemy pay an unprecedented price, promising a relentless and decisive response to Hamas's aggression. Netanyahu's commitment to retaliate strongly reflected Israel's determination to safeguard its citizens and restore stability amidst the most lethal attack in years.

 

 

The Growing Casualty Toll

Casualties in Israel & Palestine: The conflict between Israel and Hamas led to a significant number of casualties on both sides. In Israel, at least 250 people were killed, making it the deadliest attack in years. 

The casualties included both civilians and military personnel. In Gaza, the Palestinian Health Ministry reported at least 232 people killed and 1,600 wounded due to Israeli retaliatory air strikes. 

The growing toll of human lives lost and injuries sustained highlighted the devastating impact of the conflict on the civilian population, fueling concerns about the humanitarian crisis and the need for urgent de-escalation of violence.

 Israel - Palestinian Conflict Timeline

 

International Reactions

Expressions of Solidarity and Condemnation from World Leaders: The escalating conflict between Israel and Hamas elicited a range of reactions from world leaders, with expressions of both solidarity and condemnation. 

Several nations expressed their unwavering support for Israel's right to defend itself against Hamas's aggression. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India, for instance, expressed his solidarity with Israel and the victims of the attack, while emphasizing India's close relations with Israel in security, defense, and technology.

Conversely, some world leaders and international organizations condemned the violence, emphasizing the need for restraint and the protection of civilians. 

The United Nations special coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, Tor Wennesland, condemned the "heinous attacks targeting civilians" and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities.

 

 

India's Response

Solidarity with Israel and Concern for Nationals: India responded to the escalating conflict between Israel and Hamas with a statement expressing solidarity with Israel.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the terrorist attacks in Israel, extending his thoughts and prayers to the victims and their families. He emphasized India's strong ties with Israel in various domains, including security, defense, and technology.

Simultaneously, the Indian embassy in Tel Aviv issued advisories to Indian nationals, urging them to remain vigilant, follow security protocols, and stay close to safety shelters.

Concerns were also raised regarding Indian citizens visiting the region, particularly those in Bethlehem, prompting efforts to ensure their safety and facilitate their return. The situation underscored India's commitment to its diplomatic relations and the well-being of its citizens abroad amidst the ongoing conflict.

 

 

Analyzing Hamas's Motivation

Hamas's decision to launch a surprise attack on Israel was driven by a combination of geopolitical considerations and internal pressures. 

The group, known for its resistance against Israeli occupation, aimed to position itself as the primary defender of Palestinian rights and the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem.

This motivation was fueled by growing frustrations among Palestinians over Israel's actions in the West Bank and Gaza, as well as perceived inaction by the Palestinian Authority.

The attack allowed Hamas to capitalize on public anger and discontent, presenting itself as a strong and viable alternative to the existing Palestinian leadership.

 

 

Geopolitical Implications

The surprise attack by Hamas has significant geopolitical implications for the region. The conflict has the potential to derail ongoing normalization efforts between Israel and Arab countries, such as Saudi Arabia, potentially resetting diplomatic dynamics in the region.

The attack also underscores the influence of Iran and its proxies in shaping regional conflicts, as Tehran has been a key supporter of Hamas and other militant groups opposing Israel.

Furthermore, the conflict could exacerbate existing tensions between Israel and Lebanon's Hezbollah, another Iran-backed group.

The situation highlights the intricate and volatile nature of Middle Eastern geopolitics, with various actors seeking to leverage the conflict for their strategic interests.

 

 

FAQs Related to Israel – Hamas Conflict

Question: What is the significance of the Al-Aqsa Mosque?

Answer.  The Al-Aqsa Mosque is the third holiest site in Islam and a focal point of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Question: Who is credited with building Masjid Al Aqsa?

Answer.  The exact origins are unclear, but it is traditionally associated with the time of the Prophet Muhammad.

 

Question: What is the historical significance of Masjid Al Aqsa?

Answer. 

The Al-Aqsa Mosque, located in the Old City of Jerusalem, holds immense historical and religious significance, particularly in Islam. Here are some key points about its importance:

1.       Third Holiest Site in Islam: Al-Aqsa Mosque is considered the third holiest site in Islam after the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca and the Prophet's Mosque in Medina.

2.       The Night Journey and Ascension: The mosque is traditionally believed to be the place from which the Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven during the Miraj, also known as the Night Journey and Ascension.

3.       Early Islamic History: The Al-Aqsa Mosque was one of the first places of worship that the early Muslim community faced during their prayers before the qibla was changed to Mecca.

4.       Caliphate Era: The mosque was originally a small prayer house built by the early Muslims after the 638 CE Muslim conquest of Jerusalem during the Rashidun Caliphate led by the second Caliph, Umar ibn al-Khattab.

5.       Religious Symbolism: The mosque is also significant because it represents the continuity and connection of the Islamic faith with the Abrahamic tradition.

6.       Political and Cultural Center: Throughout history, the mosque and its surroundings have been a center of political, cultural, and social life in Jerusalem.

7.       Conflict and Preservation: The Al-Aqsa Mosque has been the focal point of various conflicts and has been preserved and restored many times throughout history due to its significance.

 

Question: What are key historical events related to Masjid Aqsa?

Answer.  Key events mentioned below:

1.       691 CE: The Dome of the Rock, a significant Islamic structure, is constructed by the Umayyad Caliph Abd al-Malik on the Temple Mount, which is part of the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound.

2.       705 CE: The construction of the Al-Aqsa Mosque is completed under the reign of the Umayyad Caliph Al-Walid I.

3.       1099: The First Crusade leads to the capture of Jerusalem, and the Al-Aqsa Mosque is converted into a church.

4.       1187: Saladin recaptures Jerusalem from the Crusaders, and the Al-Aqsa Mosque is restored as a place of Islamic worship.

5.       1929: The Buraq Uprising, also known as the 1929 Palestine riots, occurs following disputes over Jewish access to the Western Wall, which is part of the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound.

6.       1967: Israel captures East Jerusalem, including the Old City and the Al-Aqsa Mosque, during the Six-Day War.

7.       1996: The opening of the Western Wall Tunnel near the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound triggers widespread protests and violence in the Palestinian territories.

8.       2000: The Second Intifada, or Al-Aqsa Intifada, begins following a visit by then-opposition leader Ariel Sharon to the Temple Mount/Al-Aqsa Mosque compound.

9.       2014: Clashes occur between Palestinian worshipers and Israeli police at the Al-Aqsa Mosque during a Jewish holiday, leading to international concern.

10.   2017: Israel installs metal detectors at the entrances to the Al-Aqsa Mosque following a shooting attack, sparking widespread protests and tensions. The metal detectors are later removed.

 

Question: What is the most important mosque in Jerusalem?

Answer.  The Al-Aqsa Mosque is the most important and significant mosque in Jerusalem.

Question: What role does the Aqsa Mosque play in religious practices?

Answer.  The Aqsa Mosque is a focal point of worship and pilgrimage for Muslims.

Question: What is the role of Hamas in the Gaza Strip?

Answer.  Hamas is a Palestinian political and military organization that governs the Gaza Strip.

Question: What is the nature of the relationship between Israel and Hamas?

Answer.  The relationship between Israel and Hamas is highly adversarial, characterized by conflict and hostilities.

Question: What types of attacks does Israel typically face?

Answer.  Israel faces various types of attacks, including rocket fire, suicide bombings, and armed infiltrations.

Question: What motivates Palestinian attacks on Israel?

Answer.  Palestinian attacks on Israel are often motivated by political grievances, territorial disputes, and resistance to Israeli occupation.

Question: What is the main issue at the heart of the Israel-Palestine conflict?

Answer.  The main issue is the dispute over territory, borders, and the status of Jerusalem.

Question: What are the main parties involved in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?

Answer.  The main parties are the State of Israel and the Palestinian people, represented by various factions such as the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and Hamas.

Question: What is the basis for the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians?

Answer.  The conflict is based on historical, territorial, and political disputes.

Question: What has been the impact of the Palestine-Israel conflict on the region?

Answer.  The conflict has led to wars, violence, displacement, and instability in the region.

Question: When did the Israel-Palestine conflict begin or How long has the Israel-Palestine conflict been going on?

Answer.  The conflict has historical roots, but it intensified with the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948.

Question: What role does the United Nations play in the Israel-Palestine conflict?

Answer.  The UN provides diplomatic efforts, humanitarian aid, and peacekeeping missions in the region.

Question: What is the root cause of the Israel-Palestine conflict?

Answer.  The root cause is the competing national aspirations and historical grievances of Israelis and Palestinians.

Question: What is Russia's role in the Israel-Palestine conflict?

Answer.  Russia has historically been involved in diplomatic efforts and has expressed support for a two-state solution.

Question: Is the Israel-Palestine conflict primarily a religious conflict?

Answer.  While religion plays a role, the conflict is also driven by national, political, and territorial issues.

Question: What are the latest developments in the Israel-Palestine conflict?

Answer.  Recent news may cover ongoing violence, diplomatic efforts, or changes in the political landscape.

Question: Can you provide a summary of the Israel-Palestine conflict?

Answer.  The Israel-Palestine conflict is a long-standing dispute over territory, borders, and the status of Jerusalem, resulting in ongoing violence and political instability.

Question: What was the nature of the recent Hamas attack on Israel?

Answer.  The recent Hamas attack on Israel likely involved rocket fire, armed infiltrations, or other forms of military action.

 

Question: What was the objective of Operation Iron Swords?

Answer.  There is 5 key Objectives of Iron Sword Operation can be extracted:

1.       Clear Out Hostile Forces: The primary objective is to eliminate the hostile forces that have infiltrated Israeli territory.

2.       Exact Immense Price from Enemy: The second objective is to impose severe consequences on Hamas, particularly within the Gaza Strip.

3.       Reinforce Other Fronts: The third objective is to strengthen other fronts and prevent any potential involvement of other parties in the ongoing conflict.

4.       Unite for Victory: Netanyahu called for national unity among Israeli citizens, emphasizing the need for a collective effort to achieve victory in the war.

5.       Restore Security and Quiet: The focus is on restoring security and peace to the areas affected by the attacks and ensuring that the citizens of Israel can return to a state of normalcy.

 

Question: What does the term "Al-Aqsa Strom" refer to?

Answer.  "Al-Aqsa Strom" was an operation that launched by Hamas (An Known & Declared Terrorist  Organization) on 7^th October 2023 . In this operation, Hamas trying to revenge the alleged brutality of Al-Aqsa Mosque by Israeli police by high bombardments (Firing thousands of rockets to Civilian Area of Israel)

 

Question: What was the purpose of the Al-Aqsa Strom Operation?

Answer. 

1.       Retaliation for Alleged Brutality: The primary purpose of the Al-Aqsa Strom Operation was to retaliate against the perceived acts of brutality committed by Israeli police at the Al-Aqsa Mosque.

2.       Rocket Attacks on Civilian Areas: The operation involved launching a high volume of rocket attacks, with the aim of targeting civilian areas in Israel as a form of revenge.

3.       Response to Tensions Surrounding the Al-Aqsa Mosque: The operation was driven by tensions surrounding the Al-Aqsa Mosque, and Hamas sought to assert its position and respond to what it viewed as provocations by Israeli authorities.

 

Question: What does the term "Al-Aqsa Flood" signify?

Answer: Al-Aqsa Flood" refers to the operation launched by Hamas militants, in which they invaded southern Israel and launched a barrage of rockets at Israeli cities in a surprise attack. 

The operation was named "al-Aqsa Flood" by a Hamas leader, signifying that the attack was carried out in defense of the Al-Aqsa Mosque, one of the holiest sites in Islam, located in the Old City of Jerusalem.

Question: What is the death toll in the Israel-Palestine conflict?

Answer.  Till now, on the launch of the Al-Aqsa operation, 250 innocent Israeli civilians died. In revenge for it, by Operation Iron Sword, 232 Palestinians died and 1600+ were wounded.

Question: How many Israelis have died in the conflict with Palestine?

Answer.  By surprise attack of Hamas, 232 Israelis were direct casualties. Hamas claimed this figure to be 300+.

Question: Who has ownership of the Al Aqsa Mosque?

Answer.  The Al Aqsa Mosque is administered by the Islamic Waqf, an Islamic religious trust, under the sovereignty of Jordan.

Question: What causes riots at the Al Aqsa Mosque?

Answer.  Riots at the Al Aqsa Mosque are often triggered by tensions over access, religious practices, and political disputes.

Question: What is the meaning and significance of the Al Aqsa Mosque?

Answer.  The Al Aqsa Mosque is significant as the third holiest site in Islam and is associated with the Prophet Muhammad's Night Journey and Ascension.

Question: What was the outcome of the 6 Day War in Israel?

Answer.  The 6 Day War in 1967 resulted in a decisive victory for Israel, with significant territorial gains.

Question: What was the significance of the Yom Kippur War for Israel?

Answer.  The Yom Kippur War in 1973 was a major conflict fought between Israel and a coalition of Arab states, leading to significant changes in the region.

Question: What were the consequences of the Israel 1973 War?

Answer.  The 1973 War, also known as the Yom Kippur War, resulted in a ceasefire and led to peace negotiations between Israel and Egypt.

Question: What major events occurred in Israel in 1973?

Answer.  The major event in Israel in 1973 was the Yom Kippur War, a conflict fought with Egypt and Syria.

Question: What happened in Israel in 1948?

Answer.  In 1948, the State of Israel was established, leading to the first Arab-Israeli war.

Question: What was the significance of the year 1967 for Israel?

Answer. The year 1967 was highly significant for Israel due to the Six-Day War, which occurred from June 5 to June 10, 1967. During this conflict, Israel fought against Egypt, Jordan, and Syria and achieved a decisive victory. 

As a result of the war, Israel captured the Gaza Strip and the Sinai Peninsula from Egypt, the West Bank and East Jerusalem from Jordan, and the Golan Heights from Syria.

Question: What are the root causes of the Israel-Palestine conflict?

Answer.  The root causes include territorial disputes, the status of Jerusalem, and historical grievances.

Question: What is the capital city of Israel?

Answer.  Jerusalem is the capital city of Israel.

Question: What is the Shema Israel prayer?

Answer.  The Shema Israel prayer is a central declaration of the Jewish faith, affirming the oneness of God.

Question: What is the dominant religion in Israel?

Answer.  The dominant religion in Israel is Judaism.

Question: What is the official currency of Israel?

Answer.  The official currency of Israel is the Israeli Shekel (ILS).

Question: What are some prominent universities in Israel?

Answer.  Prominent universities in Israel include the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Tel Aviv University, and the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology.

Question: What was the significance of the Israel 7 day war?

Answer.  It's unclear which conflict is referred to as the "7 day war." More context is needed.

Question: Who were the 4 Tribes of Israel?

Answer.  Israel was traditionally divided into 12 tribes, not 4. We have listed those 12 tribes in this answer. The Twelve Tribes of Israel are traditionally understood to be the descendants of the twelve sons of Jacob, also known as Israel. These tribes are:

Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Dan, Naphtali, Gad, Asher, Issachar, Zebulun, Joseph (often divided into two tribes named after Joseph's sons: Ephraim and Manasseh), Benjamin

Question: What is the relationship between Saudi Arabia and Israel?

Answer.  Historically, Saudi Arabia and Israel have had no formal diplomatic relations, but there have been signs of warming ties in recent years.

Question: What is the history of the Israel-Gaza war?

Answer.  There have been several conflicts between Israel and Gaza, with hostilities and military operations occurring periodically.

Question: What is the nature of the Israel-Gaza conflict?

Answer.  The Israel-Gaza conflict is a long-standing dispute involving territorial, political, and security issues.

Question: Can you provide some key facts about Israel?

Answer.  Israel is a country in the Middle East, known for its rich history, diverse population, and ongoing conflict with the Palestinians.

Question: What is the Iron Dome in Israel?

Answer.  The Iron Dome is an Israeli missile defense system designed to intercept and destroy short-range rockets and artillery shells.

Question: What are the characteristics of Israel-Hamas attacks?

Answer.  Israel-Hamas attacks typically involve rocket fire, air strikes, and ground operations, often resulting in casualties and damage on both sides.

Question: How does Israel respond when it is attacked?

Answer.  Israel typically responds to attacks with military force, including air strikes and ground operations.

Question: What is the impact of Israel's bombing campaigns?

Answer.  Israel's bombing campaigns can result in significant damage, casualties, and displacement of people, particularly in conflict zones.