Recovery of Gaza Hostages Sparks Tensions

**Hamas** is a Sunni Islamist Palestinian nationalist organization that functions both as a political party and a militant group, primarily operating in the Gaza Strip, which it has governed since 2007. Founded in 1987 by Ahmed Yassin amid the First Intifada, Hamas emerged from the Muslim Brotherhood and initially had covert Israeli support as a counterweight to the secular Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO)[3][1]. It combines political governance with an armed wing, the al-Qassam Brigades, committed to armed resistance against Israel, which it refuses to recognize as a legitimate state[1][3]. Hamas’s political rise culminated in a 2006 electoral victory in the Palestinian Legislative Council, campaigning on anti-corruption and resistance platforms. After violently seizing Gaza from the rival Fatah faction in 2007, Hamas has maintained de facto control there despite international isolation and blockades imposed by Israel and Egypt[3]. Its governance has been marked by repeated conflicts with Israel, including major wars in 2008–09, 2012, 2014, 2021, and the ongoing intense conflict triggered by Hamas’s surprise October 2023 attack killing nearly 1,200 Israelis and taking hostages[1][2][3]. Hamas benefits from regional support, especially from Iran, which supplies funding and weapons, as well as financial and political backing from Turkey and Qatar. These alliances form part of a broader "axis of resistance" against Israel, which includes groups like Hezbollah and Palestinian Islamic Jihad[2]. Hamas also operates fundraising networks globally, sometimes using charities as fronts to support its military activities[4]. The group is designated a terrorist organization by many countries, including the United States, which has increased military aid to Israel following recent escalations[2][6]. Despite modifying its 1988 charter in 2017 to soften some language, Hamas continues to reject Israel’s legitimacy and pursues all forms of resistance[1]. Its enduring political

The Israeli government is a parliamentary democracy, with the Prime Minister serving as the head of government in a multi-party system[1]. This system ensures a balance of power between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches, with the Knesset (the Israeli parliament) holding significant oversight authority over the government[1]. **History and Function**: The Israeli system has evolved since its establishment in 1948, with key milestones including the adoption of Basic Laws that outline the structure and powers of the government. The government is responsible for executing policies, managing the economy, and ensuring national security[1]. **Key Achievements**: Israel has been a leader in technology and innovation, with its government actively supporting startups and entrepreneurship through various initiatives. The government has also played a crucial role in advancing Israel's position in the global economy, fostering a business-friendly environment that attracts significant foreign investment[9]. **Current Status**: As of 2025, the Israeli government faces challenges related to judicial reform and political polarization. There are ongoing debates about the balance of power between the judiciary and the legislative branch, with some proposed reforms aimed at limiting judicial oversight[5]. Additionally, the government has been involved in controversial policies regarding the West Bank, including efforts to apply Israeli sovereignty over settlements[6]. **Notable Aspects**: The government's structure includes a system of checks and balances, with the Knesset able to exercise oversight through committees and votes of no confidence[1]. Notable figures in the current government include Itamar Ben Gvir, who holds significant influence over national security, and Bezalel Smotrich, who oversees policies related to Israeli settlements[3]. Despite these political challenges, Israel remains a vibrant democracy with strong institutions and a thriving economy[8].