Fact Check: Hamas is just resisting

Fact Check: "Hamas is just resisting"

What We Know

Hamas, officially known as the Islamic Resistance Movement, was established in 1987 during the First Intifada against Israeli occupation. It emerged from the Palestinian branch of the Muslim Brotherhood and has a significant sociopolitical presence in the Palestinian territories, particularly in the Gaza Strip ([source-1](https://www.congress.gov/crs-product/IF12549#:~:text=Hamas%20(or%20the%20Islamic%20Resistance,it%20has%20controlled%20since%202007.); source-4). The group's charter calls for the establishment of an Islamic state in place of Israel and rejects any agreements made between the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and Israel (source-2).

On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched a large-scale attack on Israel, resulting in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people and the taking of over 250 hostages. This event triggered a significant military response from Israel, leading to a high number of casualties in Gaza, with estimates of tens of thousands of Palestinians killed (source-3). Hamas has characterized its actions as a form of resistance against what it describes as decades of Israeli oppression and a response to the blockade of Gaza (source-3).

Analysis

The claim that "Hamas is just resisting" simplifies a complex situation. While Hamas does frame its actions as resistance against Israeli occupation and policies, it is also a designated terrorist organization by several countries, including the U.S. and Israel, due to its history of violent attacks against civilians (source-2; source-7). The group's military wing, the Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades, has conducted numerous attacks, including bombings and rocket fire targeting Israeli civilians (source-1.

Hamas's self-identification as a resistance movement is rooted in its narrative of defending Palestinian rights and responding to Israeli actions, such as military operations and settlement expansions in the West Bank. However, this perspective is contested by many who argue that Hamas's tactics, including the targeting of civilians, undermine its claims to legitimate resistance (source-3; source-6).

The reliability of sources discussing Hamas varies. While academic and governmental sources provide structured analyses based on historical and political contexts, media reports often reflect immediate events and public sentiment, which can introduce bias. For instance, while the BBC and NPR provide comprehensive overviews, they may also reflect the prevailing narratives of their respective audiences (source-3; source-6).

Conclusion

The claim that "Hamas is just resisting" is Partially True. While Hamas does position itself as a resistance movement against Israeli occupation and violence, it is also responsible for numerous attacks that have targeted civilians, leading to its designation as a terrorist organization. This duality complicates the narrative of resistance, as it intertwines legitimate grievances with actions that many view as illegitimate and harmful.