Bronwen Maddox discusses the attacks by Hamas on Israel and the Israeli military response in Gaza with Professor Yossi Mekelberg and Dr Elham Fakhor. Topics include the motives of Hamas, impact on peace deals, Saudi Arabia's role, Israel's security measures, Arab League reactions, Gaza's humanitarian crisis, and diplomatic challenges.
Hamas launched the attack on Israel to resist occupation and disrupt potential peace deals.
Israel's response to the attack will face international scrutiny and could affect its relations with other Middle Eastern countries.
Deep dives
Hamas's Motives for the Attack
Hamas, an Islamist militant group, launched an attack on Israel to resist its military occupation and marginalize its secular opponents. There are also speculations that Hamas aims to disrupt potential peace deals between Israel and other Middle East countries. This is not the first time Hamas has used violence to send a message regarding peace negotiations.
The Context and Impact of the Attack
The Gaza Strip, where Hamas operates, has been under a total siege by Israel, with its 2 million inhabitants suffering from a lack of food, water, and power. Israeli airstrikes have caused a high number of casualties on both sides. The attack needs to be understood within the broader context of the prolonged Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the ongoing occupation of Palestinian territories.
Challenges and Implications for Israel
Prime Minister Netanyahu faces both military and political challenges in responding to the attack. While he may seek to go in hard against Hamas, eradicating the group entirely seems unlikely. Israel's actions will also face scrutiny under international law, particularly regarding civilian casualties and potential war crimes. The response to the attack could have implications for Israel's relations with other Middle Eastern countries and the prospects for peace negotiations.
Bronwen Maddox speaks with Reuters journalist Steve Farrell about the attacks by Hamas on Israel and the Israeli military response now underway in Gaza.