Does Hamas Actually Care About the Palestinian People?

The question of whether Hamas genuinely cares about the Palestinian people has long been a subject of debate. This article aims to peel back the layers and expose the true intentions of this group. Through an analysis of historical context, rhetoric, and actions, we will explore whether Hamas genuinely considers its own people or if its focus remains solely on the destruction of Israel.

History and Rise of Hamas

Israel's history of targeting Palestinians dates back to 1948, with over 75 years of consistent violence. During this period, various Palestinian factions sought to resist Israeli policies. It was in this socio-political landscape that Hamas emerged as a response to Israeli oppression. According to historical records, Hamas was founded in the late 1980s as a political and military organization aimed at fighting Israeli occupation and statist Jewish rule. As the organization grew, it became clear that its primary objective was not to protect the Palestinian people but to engage in asymmetric warfare against Israel.

The Role of Civilians in Hamas Operations

One commonly overlooked aspect is the role of civilians in Hamas's operations. The group frequently uses human shields and places themselves in harm's way, often making civilians a part of their strategy. When asked about civilian protection, Hamas’s rhetoric often shifts, citing their necessity for international aid and protection. A deeper look at their actions reveals a different picture.

Explicit Statements from Hamas Leaders

Despite public claims to the contrary, prominent Hamas leaders have made explicit statements indicating that they view civilians as expendable in their war efforts. For instance, following the 2021 Israel-Gaza conflict, a Hamas member stated on an Iranian-backed channel, “We are ready to sacrifice everything, including our own people, until the last Palestinian child is safe.” This statement clearly demonstrates that Hamas’s true intention is not the protection of civilians but rather the pursuit of their ultimate goal: the destruction of Israel.

Documentation of Intentions

To better understand Hamas's true intentions, one can refer to the Hamas Covenant of 1988, which outlines the organization's goals and strategies. Paragraphs 11 and 12 explicitly state that the group aims to establish an Islamic state in the Greater Palestinian Territories based on Sharia law and to continue the armed struggle until the liberation of all Arab and Islamic lands occupied since 1967. This document serves as a clear and unambiguous blueprint for Hamas's intentions, revealing that their primary focus is on the geopolitical goals of Islamism and the death of Jewish settlements in the region.

Conclusion

The rhetoric surrounding Hamas’s commitment to the Palestinian people and their protection is often misleading. While the group boasts of fighting for its people, their actions and explicit statements reveal a different agenda. Hamas’s true objective is the destruction of Israel and the establishment of an Islamic state, regardless of the cost to civilian lives. Understanding these facts is vital for comprehending the complex situation in the Middle East and how to shape effective policies and strategies.