History of Hamas in Timeline
Hamas is a Palestinian Sunni-Islamist nationalist organization. It possesses a military wing known as the Qassam Brigades. Since 2007, Hamas has governed the Gaza Strip, a territory occupied by Israel. The organization is involved in political activities and armed conflict within the region.
June 4, 1967: Hamas accepted the establishment of a Palestinian state
On 2 May 2017, Khaled Mashal, chief of the Hamas Political Bureau, presented a new Charter, in which Hamas accepted the establishment of a Palestinian state "on the basis of June 4, 1967" (West Bank, Gaza Strip and East Jerusalem).
June 1967: Implicit Recognition of the June 1967 borders
On 28 June 2006, Hamas signed the second version of 'the Palestinians' Prisoners Document', which implicitly recognized the June 1967 borders, agreed on the construction of a Palestinian state with Jerusalem as a capital and accepted limitations to the resistance in the territories occupied in 1967.
1967: Hamas agrees to a Palestinian state based on 1967 borders
Both in the 2007 Mecca agreement and in the 2006 Palestinian Prisoners' Document, Hamas agreed to a Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders. Scholars view this as "implicit" recognition of Israel because by accepting a Palestinian state limited to the 1967 borders, Hamas acknowledged the existence of an entity on the other side.
1967: Acquiescing to 1967 borders
Hamas began acquiescing to 1967 borders in the agreements it signed with Fatah.
1967: Hamas accepts 1967 borders in agreements and charter
Hamas has repeatedly accepted the 1967 borders in signed agreements in 2005, 2006, and 2007, and in its 2017 charter. This acceptance is viewed by some scholars as tacit recognition of Israel, while others argue that Hamas retains its long-term objective of establishing a single state in former Mandatory Palestine.
1967: Hamas proposes Palestinian state based on 1967 borders as condition for truce
Hamas initially proposed a 10-year truce (hudna) to Israel, contingent on the establishment of a Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders. While figures like Sheikh Ahmed Yassin suggested such a truce could be extended, it would not imply recognition of Israel, aligning with Hamas's long-term objective of establishing a state in former Mandatory Palestine.
1967: Israeli Occupation of Gaza
In 1967, after the Israeli occupation of Gaza, the Brotherhood in Gaza refused to join the resistance boycott against Israel.
1967: Hamas willing to accept a Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders
In 2009, Taghreed El-khodary and Ethan Bronner, writing in the New York Times, said that Hamas' position is that it doesn't recognize Israel's right to exist, but is willing to accept as a compromise a Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders.
1967: Acceptance of Palestinian State
In April 2008, Khaled Mashal said that Hamas would "accept a Palestinian state on the 1967 borders" and accept the right of Israel "to live as a neighbour" if such a deal would be approved by a referendum among the "Palestinians".
1967: Hamas willing to agree to a truce along pre-1967 borders
In April 2024, Hamas Member of Parliament Khalil al-Hayya stated that Hamas is willing to agree to a truce of five years or more with Israel and that it would lay down its weapons and convert into a political party if an independent Palestinian state is established along pre-1967 borders.
1967: Mashal refers to the 1967 borders as too small a part of Palestine
In January 2024, Khaled Mashal slighted "The West" and "the two-state solution", asserting that the 1967 borders represent an unacceptably small portion of Palestine.
1967: Palestinian state in the 1967 borders
In June 2006, Ismail Haniyeh sent a letter to US President George W. Bush, proposing a Palestinian state within the 1967 borders and offering a truce for many years. Haniyeh also sent a similar message to Israel's leaders and reportedly proposed a fifty-year armistice.
1967: Mashal and Haniyeh Propose Palestinian State
In May 2010, Khaled Mashal stated that Hamas would accept a state "Israel" living next to "a Palestinian state on the borders of 1967" if a referendum among "the Palestinian people" would endorse it. In November 2010, Ismail Haniyeh proposed a Palestinian state on 1967 borders, conditional on resolution of the refugee issue, release of Palestinian prisoners, and Jerusalem as its capital, subject to a Palestinian referendum.
1967: Hamas publishes a document accepting a Palestinian state in the 1967 borders
In May 2017, Hamas published a document titled "A Document of General Principles and Policies" that accepted a Palestinian state in the 1967 borders, without recognizing Israel, which is seen by many as being consistent with a two-state solution, while others state that Hamas retains the long-term objective of establishing one state in former Mandatory Palestine.
1967: Long-term hudna offer
In November 2008, Ismail Haniyeh repeated what he had written in June 2006 to U.S. President George W. Bush but with one extra condition: "the Hamas government had agreed to accept a Palestinian state that followed the 1967 borders and to offer Israel a long-term hudna (truce), if Israel recognized the Palestinians' national rights".
1967: Hamas offers long term truce based on 1967 borders
In November 2008, Ismail Haniyeh stated that Hamas was willing to accept a Palestinian state in the territories of 1967.
1967: Segal suggests a Palestinian state within the 1967 borders
In mid-2006, University of Maryland's Jerome Segal suggested that a Palestinian state within the 1967 borders and a truce for many years could be considered Hamas's de facto recognition of Israel.
1967: Acceptance of Palestinian State in 1967 Borders
On 1 May 2017, Hamas published "A Document of General Principles and Policies", also known as the 2017 Hamas charter, which accepts a Palestinian state in the 1967 borders without recognizing Israel.
1967: Ayoob discusses the 2017 Hamas charter
Professor Mohammed Ayoob in his 2020 book, while discussing the 2017 Hamas charter, stated that "acceptance of the 1967 borders can be interpreted as a de facto acceptance of the preconditions for a two-state solution".
1967: Hamas' de facto recognition of the 1967 borders
Some scholars argue that Hamas has offered more to the Israelis than Israeli major parties including Likud have offered in return to the Palestinians, both with its de facto recognition of the 1967 borders and its pledge to accept the recognition of Israel in any future peace deal that has the consensus and approval of the Palestinian parties and population.
1967: PLO's recognition of Israel in Oslo Accords on the 1967 borders
Tareq Baconi notes that Hamas has said it would accept mutual recognition of Israel in any consensus peace deal approved by other Palestinian parties and the population in a referendum. To explain why it withholds formal recognition, Baconi argues that Hamas learned a lesson from the 1993 Oslo Accords, where the PLO's recognition of Israel on 78% of historic Palestine (along the 1967 borders) did not result in Israel recognizing Palestine on the remaining 22%. Thus, Hamas keeps the issue of formal recognition of Israel as a bargaining chip for negotiations.
1967: Hamas proposes Palestinian state on 1967 borders
Throughout its history, including in 2006, Hamas has proposed the establishment of a Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders. This proposal involves the creation of a Palestinian state in the territories occupied by Israel in 1967, which include the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
1973: Foundation of Mujama al-Islamiya
In 1973, Ahmed Yassin founded the Mujama al-Islamiya Islamic charity, affiliated with the Muslim Brotherhood, which later served as the foundation for Hamas.
December 1987: Hamas Adopts Nationalist Line
In December 1987, the Muslim Brotherhood adopted a more nationalist and activist line under the name of Hamas.
1987: Hamas Founded After First Intifada
In 1987, Hamas was founded by Ahmed Yassin after the outbreak of the First Intifada against the Israeli occupation, emerging from the Mujama al-Islamiya Islamic charity.
August 1988: Publication of the Hamas Charter
Hamas published its charter in August 1988, wherein it defined itself as a chapter of the Muslim Brotherhood and its desire to establish "an Islamic state throughout Palestine". It compares Israeli attacks on civilians to that by Nazi Germany. The charter rejects a two-state solution, stating that the conflict cannot be resolved "except through jihad". It was signed on 18 August 1988.
1988: Hamas does not implement its 1988 Charter as policy
After winning the 2006 elections, Hamas agreed to work within the existing Palestinian political system and did not implement its 1988 Charter as policy. This decision reflected a pragmatic approach to governance following their electoral success.
1988: Hamas Covenant Glossed
In 1988, in the Hamas Covenant, the acronym HMS was glossed by the Arabic word ḥamās (حماس) which means "zeal", "strength", or "bravery".
1988: Hamas charter sought full control of the land
In 1988, the Hamas's charter sought full control of the land, thus denouncing the two-state solution, as noted by scholars.
1988: Original Hamas charter vision
In 1988, the vision that Hamas articulated in its original charter resembles the vision of certain Zionist groups regarding the same territory, as noted by several authors. This may suggest that Hamas's views were inspired by those Zionist perspectives.
1988: Hamas leaders state that the document does not replace the 1988 charter
In May 2017, Hamas leaders stated that "A Document of General Principles and Policies" does not replace the 1988 charter.
1988: Ahmed Yassin states Hamas does not hate Jews
In a 1988 interview, Ahmed Yassin, the founder of Hamas, responded to accusations that Hamas hates Jews by stating that Hamas does not hate Jews or fight them because they are Jewish, but rather because they have taken their land and expelled them, emphasizing that they love all people of faith and only ask for their rights.
1988: Mandate Palestine as ‘Islamic waqf’
In its 1988 Charter, Hamas framed the Mandate Palestine as ‘Islamic waqf’ or endowment, under sovereignty of God.
1988: Original Charter Becomes Historical Document
On 1 May 2017, Hamas leaders explained that "The original charter has now become a historical document and part of an earlier stage in our evolution. It will remain in the movement's bookshelf as a record of our past." Hamas did not formally revoke the original 1988 charter so as to not alienate some of its base members.
1988: Hamas charter interpreted as a call for armed struggle
Several authors have interpreted the 1988 Hamas charter as a call for "armed struggle against Israel".
1988: Relevance of the 1988 Hamas Charter
Since March 2006, debates have been running as to whether the original 1988 Hamas charter has become obsolete and irrelevant or still spells out Hamas's genuine and ultimate goals.
1988: Hamas charter proclaims jihad against Jews and is characterized as genocidal
The 1988 Hamas charter proclaims that jihad against Jews is required until Judgement Day. Article 7 of the 1988 governing charter of Hamas "openly dedicate(s) Hamas to genocide against the Jewish people". More authors have characterized the violent language against all Jews in the original Hamas charter as genocidal, incitement to genocide, or antisemitic.
1988: The 1988 Hamas charter described as antisemitic
The 1988 Hamas charter was widely described as antisemitic.
1988: The Atlantic magazine compares statements in the 1988 charter with those that appear in The Protocols of the Elders of Zion
The American Interest magazine wrote that the charter "echoes" Nazi propaganda in claiming that Jews profited during World War II. Jeffrey Goldberg, editor-in-chief of The Atlantic magazine, has compared statements in the 1988 charter with those that appear in The Protocols of the Elders of Zion.
1988: Movement came under pressure to update its founding charter issued in 1988
The tone and casting of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict as part of an eternal struggle between Muslim and Jews by the Hamas Covenant had become an obstacle for the movement to be able to take part in diplomatic forums involving Western nations. The movement came under pressure to update its founding charter issued in 1988 which called for Israel's destruction and advocated violent means for achieving a Palestinian state.
1989: Hamas followers campaign for polygamy and segregation
In 1989, during the First Intifada, a few Hamas followers campaigned for polygamy, and insisted women stay at home and be segregated from men. In the course of this campaign, women who chose not to wear the hijab were verbally and physically harassed, with the result that the hijab was being worn 'just to avoid problems on the streets'. The harassment dropped drastically when, after 18 months, the Unified National Leadership of the Uprising (UNLU) condemned it.
1989: War with Israel
In the spring of 1989, Hamas began its war with Israel's army as part of the First Intifada, a protest movement that became violent.
1990: Palestinian exodus from Kuwait
The cool relationship between Fatah and Kuwait owed to Arafat's support for Saddam during the First Gulf War, which lead to the Palestinian exodus from Kuwait (1990–91).
December 1992: Deportation of Hamas Members
In December 1992, Israeli authorities deported over 400 Palestinians, suspected to be Hamas members, to Southern Lebanon.
1992: Holy Land Foundation for Relief
Between 1992 and 2001, the Holy Land Foundation for Relief is said to have provided $6.8 million to Palestinian charities of the $57 million collected.
November 1993: Death of Emad Akel
On 24 November 1993, Emad Akel, a leader in the Brigades, was killed.
1993: Hamas leaders' statements at the Philadelphia conference
In 1993, during the Philadelphia conference, Hamas leaders interpreted George H. W. Bush's New World Order outline as a plan to destroy Islam. Consequently, they decided to concentrate funding on bolstering Islamic roots within Palestinian society and promoting jihad.
1993: PLO's recognition of Israel in Oslo Accords as a lesson for Hamas
Tareq Baconi notes that Hamas has said it would accept mutual recognition of Israel in any consensus peace deal approved by other Palestinian parties and the population in a referendum. To explain why it withholds formal recognition, Baconi argues that Hamas learned a lesson from the 1993 Oslo Accords, where the PLO's recognition of Israel on 78% of historic Palestine did not result in Israel recognizing Palestine on the remaining 22%. Thus, Hamas keeps the issue of formal recognition of Israel as a bargaining chip for negotiations.
1993: Introductory Memorandum
With Hamas's 1993 Introductory Memorandum, Hamas broke away from the uncompromising character of their religious frame, and proposed two stages of liberation of Palestine.
1995: Hamas reiterates rejection of Israel recognition
In 1995, Hamas reiterated its rejection of any recognition of Israel, maintaining its stance against acknowledging Israel's legitimacy.
1995: US Designation of Hamas as a Terrorist Organization
In 1995, the United States designated Hamas as a terrorist organization.
January 1996: Death of Yahya Ayyash
On 5 January 1996, Yahya Ayyash, a leader in the Brigades, was killed.
1998: Antisemitism not the main tenet of Hamas ideology
In 1998, Esther Webman of the Project for the Study of Anti-Semitism at Tel Aviv University wrote that although it is true that Hamas has issued antisemitic leaflets, and its writings and manifestos rely upon antisemitic documents (the Protocols of the Elders of Zion, and other works of European Christian literature), exhibiting antisemitic themes, antisemitism was not the main tenet of Hamas ideology.
2000: We don't hate Jews
Ahmed Yassin said that the Jews lived with us all of our lives and we never assaulted them, and they held high positions in government and ministries. But if they take my home and make me a refugee like 4 million Palestinians in exile? Who has more right to this land?
2000: Hamas runs social institutions in West Bank and Gaza
By 2000, Hamas or its affiliated charities operated roughly 40% of the social institutions in the West Bank and Gaza.
2000: Hamas Attacks and Casualties
From 2000, Hamas was responsible for killing nearly 400 Israelis and wounding more than 2,000 in 425 attacks, according to the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
2000: Early Funding from Saudi Arabia
From 2000, Saudi Arabia funded most of Hamas's operations.
2000: Hamas press release describes Holocaust as an 'alleged and invented story'
In 2000, Hamas described Nazi Germany's genocide of European Jews as "so-called" and "an alleged and invented story with no basis" in a press release. This statement is considered a form of Holocaust denial.
2001: Alleged donation to Hamas and subsequent shutdown
By 2001, the Holy Land Foundation for Relief was alleged to have given Hamas $13 million, and was shut down shortly afterwards.
2001: EU Designation of Hamas's Military Wing
In 2001, the European Union designated Hamas's military wing as a terrorist organization.
2001: Hamas Rocket Attacks into Israel Begin
Since 2001, Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups have launched thousands of rockets into Israel, killing 15 civilians and wounding many more.
2001: Hamas Launches Qassam Rockets and Mortar Attacks
Starting from 2001, Hamas launched more than 3,000 Qassam rockets and 2,500 mortar attacks into Israel.
March 2002: Netanya Hotel Suicide Bombing
On 27 March 2002, Hamas committed a deadly suicide bombing at a Netanya hotel, resulting in the deaths of 30 people and injuries to 140 others. The attack, known as the Passover massacre, occurred on the first night of Passover.
July 2002: Death of Salah Shehade
On 23 July 2002, Salah Shehade, a leader in the Brigades, was killed.
September 2002: Publication of Al-Fateh Magazine
In September 2002, Hamas began publishing Al-Fateh, a biweekly children's magazine in London, that was also posted online. The magazine featured stories, poems, riddles, and puzzles, and stated it is for "the young builders of the future".
November 2002: Canada Designates Hamas as a Terrorist Organization
In November 2002, Canada designated Hamas as a terrorist organization.
2002: Participation in jihad permitted
In 2002 their participation in jihad was permitted in the Hamas charter. The charter also outlines the importance of women in the religious-nationalist project of liberation as no lesser than that of males and their role was defined primarily as one of manufacturing males and caring for their upbringing and rearing, though the charter recognized they could fight for liberation without obtaining their husband's permission. A few were worried about imposition of Islamic dress codes, but most Christians in the Gaza Strip said these worries were baseless and they were not worried about the Hamas government.
2002: Human Rights Watch Report on Hamas
In a 2002 report, Human Rights Watch stated that Hamas leaders "should be held accountable" for "war crimes and crimes against humanity" committed by the al-Qassam Brigades.
March 2003: Death of Ibrahim al-Makadmeh
On 8 March 2003, Ibrahim al-Makadmeh, a leader in the Brigades, was killed.
August 2003: Death of Ismail Abu Shanab
On 21 August 2003, Ismail Abu Shanab, a leader in the Brigades, was killed.
2003: Resumption of Suicide Bombings
In 2003, Hamas resumed suicide bombings in Israel, which it claimed was a retaliatory measure following the failure of peace talks and an Israeli campaign targeting Hamas leadership.
2003: EU Designation of Hamas
In 2003, under US pressure, the European Union designated Hamas as a terrorist organization.
March 2004: Death of Ahmed Yassin
On 22 March 2004, Ahmed Yassin, a leader in the Brigades, was killed.
April 2004: Death of Abdel Aziz al-Rantisi
On 17 April 2004, Abdel Aziz al-Rantisi, a leader in the Brigades, was killed.
2004: Saudi Arabia cuts Hamas funding
Around 2004, under pressure from the United States, Saudi Arabia began to reduce its financial support to Hamas by cracking down on Islamic charities and private donor transfers.
2004: Reduced Support from Saudi Arabia
By 2004, Saudi Arabia reduced its support for Hamas due to US pressure.
2004: Sheikh Ahmed Yassin offers Israel a ten-year hudna
In 2004, Sheikh Ahmed Yassin, the founder of Hamas, offered Israel a ten-year hudna (truce) in return for the establishment of a Palestinian state in the West Bank and Gaza. He added that the hudna could be renewed but would never signal recognition of Israel.
2004: Israeli-Palestinian sources seized
In 2004, a list was seized that included only two Israeli-Palestinian sources, while the other contributors were donor bodies located in Jordan, Qatar, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Britain, Germany, the United States, United Arab Emirates, Italy and France.
2004: Khaled Mashal Recognized as Hamas Leader
In April 2008, former US President Jimmy Carter met with Khaled Mashal, the recognized Hamas leader since 2004, where Mashal stated Hamas would accept a Palestinian state on the 1967 borders.
2004: Nuancing Sheikh Ahmed Yassin's statements
Prior to 2004, Sheikh Ahmed Yassin made statements about a hudna (truce) with Israel. However, at an unknown date, Hamas's former senior adviser Ahmed Yousef said that a "hudna" (truce, armistice) is more than a ceasefire and "obliges parties to use the period to seek a permanent, non-violent resolution to their differences."
2004: Hamas Attacks and Casualties
Until 2004, Hamas was responsible for killing nearly 400 Israelis and wounding more than 2,000 in 425 attacks, according to the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
2005: Support for individuals in Gaza
By 2005, Hamas and other Islamic charities were supporting 120,000 individuals with monthly financial support in Gaza.
2005: Hamas signed the Cairo Declaration
Hamas also signed the Cairo Declaration in 2005, which emphasized the goal of ending the Israeli occupation and establishing a Palestinian state on the 1967 borders.
2005: Hamas accepts 1967 borders in signed agreements
Hamas has repeatedly accepted the 1967 borders in signed agreements in 2005. This acceptance is viewed by some scholars as tacit recognition of Israel, while others argue that Hamas retains its long-term objective of establishing a single state in former Mandatory Palestine.
2005: Agreements signed with Fatah
In 2005, Hamas began acquiescing to 1967 borders in the agreements it signed with Fatah.
2005: Signing of the Palestinian Cairo Declaration
In 2005, Hamas signed the Palestinian Cairo Declaration, affirming "the right of the Palestinian people to resistance" to end the occupation and establish a sovereign Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital.
2005: Hamas-led municipality bans music performance
In 2005, an outdoor music-and-dance performance in Qalqiliya was suddenly banned by the Hamas-led municipality, for the reason that such an event would be "haram", i.e. forbidden by Islam. The municipality also ordered that music no longer be played in the Qalqiliya zoo, and mufti Akrameh Sabri issued a religious edict affirming the municipality decision. In response, the Palestinian national poet Mahmoud Darwish warned that "There are Taliban-type elements in our society, and this is a very dangerous sign."
2005: Palestinian musicians fear censorship
In 2005, the human rights organization Freemuse released a report titled "Palestine: Taliban-like attempts to censor music", which said that Palestinian musicians feared that harsh religious laws against music and concerts will be imposed since Hamas group scored political gains in the Palestinian Authority local elections of 2005.
January 2006: Al-Aqsa TV Begins Broadcasting
In January 2006, Al-Aqsa TV, a television channel founded by Hamas, started broadcasting in the Gaza Strip. The station's programming has included antisemitic messages in television shows, including children's programs. Al-Aqsa TV is headed by Fathi Ahmad Hammad.
January 2006: Hamas Wins Palestinian Legislative Election
In January 2006, Hamas gained a majority of seats in the Palestinian Parliament, defeating the ruling Fatah party.
January 2006: Khaled Meshaal denies antisemitism on Hamas' part
In an editorial in The Guardian in January 2006, Khaled Meshaal, the chief of Hamas's political bureau, denied antisemitism on Hamas' part and stated that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict was political, not religious. Meshaal also stated that Hamas has "no problem with Jews who have not attacked us".
March 2006: Hamas Will Never Recognize Israel
In March 2006, Hamas' MP Riad Mustafa explained that "Hamas will never recognize Israel", but if a popular Palestinian referendum would endorse a peace agreement including recognition of Israel, "we would of course accept their verdict".
March 2006: Publication of Government Program
In March 2006, after winning the Palestinian legislative elections, Hamas published its government program, claiming sovereignty for Palestinian territories and expressing willingness to have contact with Israel in "mundane affairs" while stating that the decision to recognize Israel was for the Palestinian people to make.
April 2006: Diplomatic Tours by Hamas Leaders
In April 2006, after winning the Palestinian elections, Mahmoud al-Zahar (then foreign minister) visited Saudi Arabia, Syria, Kuwait, Bahrein, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Yemen, Libya, Algeria, Sudan and Egypt. He met with the Saudi foreign minister Prince Faysal. In Syria he held talks on the issue of Palestinians stuck on the Syrian-Iraqi border. He stated that he unofficially met officials from Western Europe in Qatar who did not wish to be named.
May 2006: Further Diplomatic Tours by Hamas
In May 2006, the Hamas foreign minister visited Indonesia, Malaysia, the Sultanate of Brunei, Pakistan, China, Sri Lanka and Iran. The minister also participated in China–Arab States Cooperation Forum. Ismail Haniyeh in 2006 visited Egypt, Syria, Kuwait, Iran, Lebanon, Qatar and Saudi Arabia.
June 2006: Referendum on Recognition of Israel
In June 2006, Hamas MP Riad Mustafa stated that Hamas would never recognize Israel, but would accept the verdict of a Palestinian referendum endorsing a peace agreement that includes recognition of Israel.
June 2006: Haniyeh's Letter to President Bush
In June 2006, Ismail Haniyeh sent a letter to US President George W. Bush, proposing a Palestinian state within the 1967 borders and a long-term truce in exchange for dialogue with the Hamas government.
June 2006: Signing of 'the Palestinians' Prisoners Document'
On 28 June 2006, Hamas signed the second version of 'the Palestinians' Prisoners Document', supporting the establishment of a Palestinian state on territories occupied in 1967 and recognizing the PLO as the legitimate representative of the Palestinian people.
August 2006: Haniyeh's Interview with The New York Times
In August 2006, Ismail Haniyeh stated in an interview with The New York Times that Hamas would accept a sovereign Palestinian state over all lands within the 1967 borders.
November 2006: Hamas offers truce to Israel
In November 2006, Hamas offered Israel a proposal similar to a previous one, suggesting a long-term truce. The offer was made after Ismail Haniyeh had already sent messages to US President George W. Bush and Israeli leaders earlier in 2006 proposing a long-term truce. The proposal involved the creation of a Palestinian state along the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, with the armistice automatically renewing.
November 2006: Proposed Truce for a Palestinian State
In November 2006, Hamas proposed a truce for many years to Israel in exchange for a Palestinian state within the 1967 borders.
2006: Hamas Smuggles Advanced Weapons into Gaza
According to a 2006 report by the rival Fatah party, Hamas had smuggled between several hundred and 1,300 tons of advanced rockets, along with other weaponry, into Gaza.
2006: Hamas agrees to work within existing Palestinian system after election victory
After winning the 2006 elections, Hamas agreed to work within the existing Palestinian political system and did not implement its 1988 Charter as policy. This decision reflected a pragmatic approach to governance following their electoral success.
2006: Hamas's Stance on Armed Resistance in Election Manifesto
During the 2006 Palestinian Territories parliamentary election campaign, Hamas stated in its election manifesto that it was prepared to use "armed resistance to end the occupation".
2006: Hamas accepts 1967 borders in signed agreements
Hamas has repeatedly accepted the 1967 borders in signed agreements in 2006. This acceptance is viewed by some scholars as tacit recognition of Israel, while others argue that Hamas retains its long-term objective of establishing a single state in former Mandatory Palestine.
2006: Hamas electoral list includes a Christian candidate
Hamas' Change and Reform electoral list for the 2006 Palestinian legislative election included a Palestinian Christian candidate, Hosam al-Taweel, running as an independent for the Christian reserved seat in Gaza City. Hosam al-Taweel won the seat, one of six seats reserved for Palestine's Christian minority, with the highest winning vote of the six elected, due to the endorsement of Hamas and other nationalist groups in 2006.
2006: Agreements signed with Fatah
In 2006, Hamas began acquiescing to 1967 borders in the agreements it signed with Fatah.
2006: Hamas Wins Palestinian Legislative Election
In 2006, Hamas secured a majority in the Palestinian Legislative Council, campaigning on promises of a corruption-free government and advocating for resistance.
2006: Hamas signed the Palestinian Prisoners' Document
In 2006, Hamas signed the Palestinian Prisoners' Document which supports the quest for a Palestinian state "on all territories occupied in 1967".
2006: Segal suggests a Palestinian state within the 1967 borders
In mid-2006, University of Maryland's Jerome Segal suggested that a Palestinian state within the 1967 borders and a truce for many years could be considered Hamas's de facto recognition of Israel.
2006: Hamas Accused of Torturing and Executing Fatah Supporters
In the wake of the 2006 Israeli conflict with Gaza, Hamas was accused of systematically rounding up, torturing, and summarily executing Fatah supporters suspected of supplying information to Israel. Human Rights Watch estimates several hundred Gazans were "maimed" and tortured in the aftermath of the conflict.
2006: Chehab writes that Hamas' public concessions following the 2006 elections were 'window-dressing'
Journalist Zaki Chehab wrote in 2007 that Hamas's public concessions following the 2006 elections were "window-dressing" and that the organisation would never recognise Israel's right to exist.
January 2007: Hamas considered the dominant political force
As of January 2007, Israeli, American and European news media considered Hamas to be the "dominant political force" within the Palestinian territories.
February 2007: Signing of the Fatah-Hamas Mecca Agreement
In February 2007, Hamas signed the Fatah–Hamas Mecca Agreement, emphasizing national unity to confront the occupation and reform the PLO, but with no details on dealing with Israel. Mousa Abu Marzook stated that this implied a de facto recognition of Israel.
September 2007: Release of Al-Fateh Magazine's 108th Issue
In September 2007, the 108th issue of Al-Fateh, Hamas's children's magazine, was released. The magazine promoted violence and antisemitism.
October 2007: Dismissal of Ahmad Yousef and Ghazi Hamad
Ahmed Yousef and Ghazi Hamad, advisers to Prime Minister Hanieh were dismissed from their posts as advisers to Hamas Prime Minister Ismail Hanieh in October 2007. Both have since been appointed to other prominent positions within the Hamas government.
2007: Estimated Losses of Brigades Operatives
By 2007, it was estimated that the Brigades had lost approximately 800 operatives in conflicts with Israeli forces.
2007: Hamas accepts 1967 borders in signed agreements
Hamas has repeatedly accepted the 1967 borders in signed agreements in 2007. This acceptance is viewed by some scholars as tacit recognition of Israel, while others argue that Hamas retains its long-term objective of establishing a single state in former Mandatory Palestine.
2007: Hamas allocates stipends and grants
In 2007, Hamas allocated monthly stipends of $100 for 100,000 workers and 3,000 fishermen, plus grants totalling $45 million to detainees and their families, through funding from Iran.
2007: Agreements signed with Fatah
In 2007, Hamas began acquiescing to 1967 borders in the agreements it signed with Fatah.
2007: Hamas Governs Gaza Strip
In 2007, Hamas began governing the Israeli-occupied Gaza Strip.
2007: Deterioration of Public Opinion After Gaza Takeover
In 2007, public opinions of Hamas deteriorated after it took control of the Gaza Strip. Before the takeover, 62% of Palestinians had a favorable view of the group, but afterwards, negative views increased.
2007: Hamas agrees to respect previous agreements with Israel in Mecca agreement
In the 2007 Mecca agreement, Hamas agreed to respect previous agreements between Fatah and Israel, including the Oslo Accords, where the PLO recognized Israel. This agreement indicated a willingness to engage with existing diplomatic frameworks.
2007: Chehab says that Hamas will never recognize Israel's right to exist
Journalist Zaki Chehab wrote in 2007 that Hamas's public concessions following the 2006 elections were "window-dressing" and that the organisation would never recognise Israel's right to exist.
2007: Hamas members attempt to impose Islamic dress on women
Since Hamas took control of the Gaza Strip in 2007, some of its members have attempted to impose Islamic dress or the hijab head covering on women. There are no government laws imposing dress and other moral standards, and the Hamas education ministry reversed one effort to impose Islamic dress on students. There has also been successful resistance to attempts by local Hamas officials to impose Islamic dress on women.
2007: Activities exclusive to Gaza Strip
Until 2007, Hamas's activities extended to the West Bank, but after a PLO crackdown, now continue exclusively in the Gaza Strip.
April 2008: Carter Meets with Mashal
In April 2008, former US President Jimmy Carter met with Khaled Mashal, who stated that Hamas would accept a Palestinian state on the 1967 borders and Israel's right to live as a neighbor if approved by a Palestinian referendum.
May 2008: Hamas Launches Qassam Rockets and Mortar Attacks
From 2001 through May 2008, Hamas launched more than 3,000 Qassam rockets and 2,500 mortar attacks into Israel.
June 2008: Ceasefire after Rocket Attacks
In June 2008, Hamas ceased rocket attacks upon Israel following an Egyptian-brokered ceasefire.
June 2008: Hamas Offers to Target Only Military Targets
In June 2008, Hamas leader Khaled Mashal offered that Hamas would only attack military targets if the IDF would stop causing the deaths of Palestinian civilians.
June 2008: Cease-fire Agreement
On 19 June 2008, Hamas and Israel agreed to a six-month cease-fire, which Hamas declared finished at 18 December amidst mutual accusations of breaching the agreed conditions.
July 2008: Barack Obama's Statement on Rocket Attacks
In July 2008, Barack Obama, then the Democratic presidential candidate, stated that he would do everything in his power to stop rockets being sent into his house, where his two daughters sleep at night, and he would expect Israelis to do the same.
November 2008: Hamas offers long-term truce to Israel
In November 2008, Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, during a meeting with European parliament members in Gaza, reiterated Hamas's willingness to accept a Palestinian state within the 1967 territories (Gaza Strip and West Bank). Haniyeh offered Israel a long-term truce in exchange for Israel's recognition of Palestinian national rights. Haniyeh stated that Israel had rejected this proposal.
November 2008: Haniyeh Repeats Truce Proposal
In November 2008, Ismail Haniyeh repeated his June 2006 proposal to accept a Palestinian state following the 1967 borders and offer Israel a long-term truce if Israel recognized Palestinian national rights, but Israel declined.
December 2008: Breakdown of Ceasefire and Israeli Attack on Gaza
In late December 2008, the ceasefire broke down, and Israel attacked Gaza.
December 2008: Condoleezza Rice Condemns Rocket Attacks
On 28 December 2008, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice issued a statement strongly condemning the repeated rocket and mortar attacks against Israel.
2008: Hamas official condemns Nazi Holocaust
In 2008, Basem Naim, Minister of Health and Information in Gaza, stated that neither Hamas nor the Palestinian government in Gaza denies the Nazi Holocaust, condemning it as one of the most abhorrent crimes in modern history and denouncing all forms of discrimination.
2008: Hamas emphasizes temporary ceasefire over peace treaty
In 2008, Mkhaimer Abusada, a political scientist at Al Azhar University, noted that Hamas speaks of a temporary ceasefire (hudna) rather than peace or reconciliation with Israel, believing they will eventually be strong enough to liberate all of historic Palestine. This perspective suggests that Hamas views truces as tactical pauses rather than permanent resolutions, aiming to shift the regional power balance in favor of the Palestinians over time.
2008: Strengthening Relationship with Qatar
In 2008, the relationship between Hamas and Qatar strengthened as Khaled Meshaal was invited to attend the Doha Summit where he was seated next to the then Qatari Emir Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani.
January 2009: Hamas Stops Rocket Attacks on Israel
From January 2009, following Operation Cast Lead, Hamas largely stopped launching rocket attacks on Israel and has on at least two occasions arrested members of other groups who have launched rockets.
January 2009: Goldberg discusses Hamas' capability to enter into a long-term non-aggression treaty
In January 2009, The Atlantic magazine columnist Jeffrey Goldberg stated: "I tend to think not, though I've noticed over the years a certain plasticity of belief among some Hamas ideologues. Also, this is the Middle East, so anything is possible" when asked about whether Hamas would be capable to enter into a long-term non-aggression treaty with Israel without being disloyal to their understanding of Islamic law and God's word.
January 2009: Withdrawal of Israeli Forces from Gaza
In mid-January 2009, Israel withdrew its forces from Gaza.
March 2009: Hillary Clinton Condemns Attacks
On 2 March 2009, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton condemned the attacks.
August 2009: Hamas Fighters Storm Mosque
On 14 August 2009, Hamas fighters stormed the Mosque of extremist cleric Abdel-Latif Moussa, who was protected by at least 100 fighters from Jund Ansar Allah. The battle resulted in at least 13 deaths, including Moussa and six Hamas fighters, and 120 injuries.
September 2009: Haniyeh Supports Palestinian State
In September 2009, Ismail Haniyeh wrote to UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon that Hamas would support any steps leading to a Palestinian state on the 1967 borders, with Jerusalem as its capital.
2009: Hamas relies on religious donations
After 2009, sanctions on Iran made funding difficult, forcing Hamas to rely on religious donations by individuals in the West Bank, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia.
2009: Hamas involved in dispute over Holocaust education in Gaza
In 2009, Hamas was involved in a dispute with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) over the inclusion of Holocaust education in Gaza. Hamas's Popular Committees for Refugees described the Holocaust as "a lie invented by the Zionists", further illustrating the organization's controversial stance on the Holocaust.
2009: Qatari Pledges and Support
In 2009, Khaled Meshaal was invited to attend the Doha Summit where he was seated next to the then Qatari Emir Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, who pledged $250 million to repair damage caused by Israel in the Israeli war on Gaza. Qatar called Gaza's blockade unjust and immoral, and began regularly handing out political, material, humanitarian and charitable support for Hamas.
2009: Hamas willing to accept a Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders
In 2009, Taghreed El-khodary and Ethan Bronner, writing in the New York Times, said that Hamas' position is that it doesn't recognize Israel's right to exist, but is willing to accept as a compromise a Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders.
February 2010: Hamas Issues Statement on Civilian Casualties
In February 2010, Hamas issued a statement regretting any harm to Israeli civilians from Palestinian rocket attacks during the Gaza war, claiming the attacks targeted military objectives but lacked accuracy.
May 2010: Mashal on Acceptable State
In May 2010, Khaled Mashal stated that Hamas would accept a state "Israel" living next to "a Palestinian state on the borders of 1967" if a referendum among "the Palestinian people" would endorse it.
November 2010: Haniyeh Proposes Palestinian State with Conditions
In November 2010, Ismail Haniyeh proposed a Palestinian state on 1967 borders, conditional on resolution of the refugee issue, release of Palestinian prisoners, and Jerusalem as its capital, subject to a Palestinian referendum.
November 2010: Haniyeh Acceptance of a Palestinian State
On 1 December 2010, Ismail Haniyeh repeated his November 2010 message that Hamas accepts a Palestinian state on the borders of 1967, with Jerusalem as its capital, release of Palestinian prisoners, and resolution of the refugee issue, conditional on a referendum.
December 2010: Haniyeh Repeats Conditions for Palestinian State
On 1 December 2010, Ismail Haniyeh repeated his November 2010 message that Hamas accepts a Palestinian state on the borders of 1967, with Jerusalem as its capital, release of Palestinian prisoners, and resolution of the refugee issue, conditional on a referendum.
2010: Interviewed Hamas leaders
Interviewed Hamas leaders in 2010 added that the right of return should be accepted in principle by Israel (without direct actual implementation).
May 2011: Hamas and Fatah Agreement
In May 2011, Hamas and Fatah signed an agreement in Cairo to form a 'national unity' government and appoint ministers by consensus, but without addressing how to deal with Israel.
2011: Iranian Support for Hamas
In 2011, Iran gave Hamas an estimated $13–15 million and access to long-range missiles. Also in 2011, Hamas used to be strongly allied with both Iran and Syria, but relations between Hamas, Iran, and Syria began to turn cold when Hamas refused to back the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
2011: Hamas acknowledges Israel as 'fait accompli'
In 2011, Mousa Abu Marzook of Hamas described Israel's existence as an "amr waqi" (or fait accompli), indicating a "de facto recognition" of Israel, even though Hamas does not formally recognize Israel as a legitimate state.
2011: US Request for Qatari Base for Hamas
In 2011, U.S. President Barack Obama personally requested that Qatar provide a base for the Hamas leadership, seeking to establish communications with Hamas.
January 2012: Political Bureau relocation to Qatar
In January 2012, Hamas's Political Bureau relocated from Damascus to Qatar due to Hamas's support for the Syrian opposition during the Syrian civil war.
February 2012: Hamas and Fatah Sign Doha Agreement
In February 2012, Hamas and Fatah signed the Fatah–Hamas Doha Agreement, agreeing again to form an interim national consensus government, which again did not materialize.
February 2012: Hamas Forswears Violence Against Israel
In February 2012, according to the Palestinian authority, Hamas forswore the use of violence against Israel, followed by a few weeks without violence, but violence soon resumed.
November 2012: Hamas Publicly Executes Alleged Collaborators
In November 2012, Hamas's Izzedine al-Qassam brigade publicly executed six Gaza residents accused of collaborating with Israel in Gaza City. The corpse of one victim was dragged through the streets. Human Rights Watch condemned Hamas for not investigating and giving a proper trial to the six men.
2012: Qatar and Turkey as Allies
According to Middle East experts, Hamas had two firm allies in 2012: Qatar and Turkey. Both provided public and financial assistance estimated in the hundreds of millions of dollars. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan stated "I don't see Hamas as a terror organization. Hamas is a political party."
2012: Support from Egypt Under Mohamed Morsi
From 2012, under the short-lived leadership of Muslim Brotherhood President Mohamed Morsi, Hamas had the support of Egypt.
2012: Qatari Emir's Visit to Gaza
In 2012, Qatar's former Emir, Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, became the first head of state to visit Gaza under Hamas rule. He pledged to raise $400 million for reconstruction.
2012: Differing Perceptions of Hamas
In 2012, Tobias Buck of the Financial Times noted that while Hamas is listed as a terrorist organization by Israel, the US, and the EU, few treat it as such, and it had lost its pariah status in the Arab and Muslim world. Some considered Hamas a terrorist group, while others saw it as a complex organization.
2013: Hamas faces financial difficulties
Following the 2013 Egyptian coup d'état, Hamas encountered financial difficulties and tried to shift the responsibility for public works in the Gaza Strip back to the Palestinian National Authority.
2013: Human Rights Watch Condemns Hamas for Lack of Trials
In 2013, Human Rights Watch issued a statement condemning Hamas for not investigating and giving a proper trial to six men executed in 2012. The statement was released the day before Hamas issued a deadline for "collaborators" to turn themselves in, or they will be pursued "without mercy".
2013: UNRWA cancels marathon after Hamas prohibits women from participating
In 2013, UNRWA canceled its annual marathon in Gaza after Hamas prohibited women from participating in the race.
2013: Egypt's Shift in Policy Towards Hamas
In 2013, after Morsi was removed from office, his successor Abdul Fattah al-Sisi outlawed the Muslim Brotherhood and destroyed the tunnels Hamas built into Egypt.
May 2014: Hamas issues new charter
In May 2014 Hamas issued a new charter. This charter states that the group does not seek war with the Jewish people but only against Zionism which it holds responsible for "occupation of Palestine", while terming Israel as the "Zionist enemy". It also accepted a Palestinian state within the Green Line as transitional but also advocated "liberation of all of Palestine".
July 2014: Negative Views in the Middle East Before Gaza Conflict
In July 2014, just before the 2014 Israel–Gaza conflict, a Pew Research survey indicated that only about a third of Palestinians held positive opinions of Hamas, while more than half viewed them negatively. 68% of Israeli Arabs, 65% of Lebanese, and roughly 60% in Jordan and Egypt also held negative views.
August 2014: Surge in Popularity After the War
Following the war in July–August 2014, polls indicated a surge in Hamas popularity, with 81 percent of Palestinians feeling that Hamas had "won" the war.
2014: Hamas Kills Palestinian Youths
During 2014 Israel–Gaza conflict, Hamas killed more than 120 Palestinian youths for defying house arrest imposed on them by Hamas, and killed 30–40 Palestinians in extrajudicial executions after accusing them of being collaborators with Israel.
2014: Hamas Executes Accused Collaborators During Conflict
During the 2014 Israel-Gaza conflict, Hamas executed at least 23 accused collaborators after three of its commanders were assassinated by Israeli forces, with Amnesty International also reporting instances of torture used by Hamas forces.
2014: Rocket Attacks Aimed at Israeli Towns
During the 2014 conflict, it was reported that nearly all of the 2,500–3,000 rockets and mortars Hamas had fired at Israel since the start of the war were aimed at towns.
March 2015: Hamas announces support of Saudi Arabian-led military intervention in Yemen
In March 2015, Hamas announced its support of the Saudi Arabian-led military intervention in Yemen against the Shia Houthis and forces loyal to former President Ali Abdullah Saleh.
2015: Egypt Declares Hamas a Terrorist Organization
In 2015, Egypt declared Hamas a terrorist organization, but this decision was overturned by Egypt in June of the same year.
March 2016: Rapprochement Between Hamas and Egypt
On 12 March 2016, there was a rapprochement between Hamas and Egypt, when a Hamas delegation visited Cairo. Hamas has assisted Egypt in controlling the insurgency in Sinai.
May 2017: Hamas publishes 'A Document of General Principles and Policies'
In May 2017, Hamas published a document titled "A Document of General Principles and Policies". It accepted a Palestinian state in the 1967 borders, without recognizing Israel, which is seen by many as being consistent with a two-state solution, while others state that Hamas retains the long-term objective of establishing one state in former Mandatory Palestine.
May 2017: Ismail Haniyeh becomes new leader
In May 2017, Hamas' Shura Council selected Ismail Haniyeh as the new leader, succeeding Khaled Mashal.
May 2017: Publication of 2017 Hamas Charter
On 1 May 2017, Hamas published "A Document of General Principles and Policies", also known as the 2017 Hamas charter. Hamas accepts a Palestinian state in the 1967 borders, without recognizing Israel.
May 2017: Khaled Mashal presents new charter
On 2 May 2017, Khaled Mashal, chief of the Hamas Political Bureau, presented a new Charter, in which Hamas accepted the establishment of a Palestinian state "on the basis of June 4, 1967" (West Bank, Gaza Strip and East Jerusalem).
July 2017: European Court of Justice Upholds Designation
In July 2017, the European Court of Justice upheld the European Union's designation of Hamas as a terrorist organization.
2017: Hamas charter removes antisemitic language
Hamas's 2017 charter removed the antisemitic language and said Hamas's struggle was with Zionists, not Jews.
2017: Hamas accepts 1967 borders and drops call for Israel's destruction in new charter
In 2017, Hamas accepted the 1967 borders in its new charter and removed the call for the destruction of Israel from its manifesto. Although the original charter was not discarded, Hamas leaders described it as a historical document and stated that the new charter reflected their current position.
2017: Hamas accepts 1967 borders in its charter
In 2017, Hamas once again accepted the 1967 borders in its updated charter, although whether this constitutes a tacit recognition of Israel remains a point of debate among scholars. Some scholars view Hamas' acceptance of the 1967 borders as a tacit acceptance of another entity on the other side, while others state that Hamas retains the long-term objective of establishing one state in former Mandatory Palestine.
2017: Release of New Charter
In 2017, Hamas released a new charter that supported a Palestinian state within the 1967 borders without recognizing Israel, removing antisemitic language and declaring Zionists as the target of their struggle.
2017: Hamas-Fatah Agreement brokered by Egypt
In 2017, Yahya Sinwar visited Cairo for 5 weeks and convinced the Egyptian government to open the Rafah crossing, letting in cement and fuel in exchange for Hamas committing to better relations with Fatah; this subsequently led to the signing of the 2017 Fatah–Hamas Agreement.
2017: PA imposes sanctions against Gaza
In 2017, the PA government imposed sanctions against Gaza, including cutting off salaries to thousands of PA employees and financial assistance to hundreds of families in the Gaza Strip.
2017: Ayoob discusses the 2017 Hamas charter
Professor Mohammed Ayoob in his 2020 book, while discussing the 2017 Hamas charter, stated that "acceptance of the 1967 borders can be interpreted as a de facto acceptance of the preconditions for a two-state solution".
May 2018: Erdogan defends Hamas as resistance movement
In May 2018, Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdoğan tweeted to the Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu that Hamas is not a terrorist organization but a resistance movement that defends the Palestinian homeland against an occupying power.
2018: Hamas finance minister equates long-term ceasefire with two-state settlement
Around 2018, a Hamas finance minister contended that a long-term ceasefire, as understood by Hamas, is essentially the same as a two-state settlement, indicating a potential alignment of Hamas's position with a negotiated resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
2018: Hamas Finance Minister on Ceasefire
Around 2018, a Hamas finance minister suggested that a "long-term ceasefire as understood by Hamas [hudna] and a two-state settlement are the same".
2018: UN Motion to Condemn Hamas Rejected
In 2018, a motion at the United Nations to condemn Hamas was rejected.
February 2020: Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh meets with Turkish President Erdoğan
In February 2020, Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh met with Turkish President Erdoğan.
2020: Haniyeh on Palestine
In 2020 Ismail Haniyeh said in an interview that one of the principles of Hamas was "Palestine from the sea to the river."
2020: Spoerl assesses Hamas' repudiation of anti-Semitism
In 2020, author J.S. Spoerl has disqualified Hamas's removal of the antisemitic language and said Hamas's struggle was with Zionists, not Jews, in their 2017 charter as "hardly (...) a serious repudiation of anti-Semitism".
2020: Arrests of Hamas Members in Saudi Arabia
In 2020, many Hamas members in Saudi Arabia were arrested.
2020: Ayoob discusses the 2017 Hamas charter
Professor Mohammed Ayoob in his 2020 book, while discussing the 2017 Hamas charter, stated that "acceptance of the 1967 borders can be interpreted as a de facto acceptance of the preconditions for a two-state solution".
May 2021: OAS Designates Hamas as a Terrorist Organization
In May 2021, the Organization of American States designated Hamas as a terrorist organization.
June 2021: Support for Rocket Attacks on Israel
In June 2021, an opinion poll found that 46% of respondents in Saudi Arabia supported rocket attacks on Israel by Hamas during the 2021 Israel–Palestine crisis.
November 2021: UK Designates Hamas as a Terrorist Organization
In November 2021, the United Kingdom designated Hamas as a terrorist organization.
2021: Conference on Future Management of Palestine
In 2021 Hamas organized and financed a conference among 250 Gaza citizens about the future management of the State of Palestine following the takeover of Israel which was predicted to come soon. According to the conclusions of the conference, the Jewish Israeli fighters would be killed, while the peaceful individuals could be integrated or be allowed to leave.
2021: Palestinian Public Opinion Poll
In 2021, a poll indicated that 53% of Palestinians believed Hamas was "most deserving of representing and leading the Palestinian people", while only 14% preferred Abbas's Fatah party. At the same time, a majority of Gazans also saw Hamas as corrupt, but were frightened to criticize the group.
2022: Release of Hamas Members from Prison
In 2022, Saudi Arabia began releasing Hamas members from prison.
2022: Sinwar's Warning to Israelis
In 2022, Yahya Sinwar cautioned Israelis that Hamas would one day "march through your walls to uproot your regime."
April 2023: Ismail Haniyeh visits Riyadh
In April 2023, Ismail Haniyeh visited Riyadh, signaling improving relations between Hamas and Saudi Arabia after long ignored requests to visit.
April 2023: Support for Hamas Rocket Attacks
In April 2023, a poll indicated that 60% of Jordanians viewed Hamas firing rockets at Israel at least somewhat positively.
July 2023: Haniyeh meets with Erdoğan and Abbas in Turkey
On 26 July 2023, Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh met with Turkish President Erdoğan and Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas. The meeting was part of Turkey's effort to reconcile Fatah with Hamas.
September 2023: Support for Hamas Among Palestinians
In September 2023, polls found that support for Hamas among Palestinians stood at around 27–31%.
October 2023: Hamas Attacks on Israeli Civilians
During the October 2023 attacks, Hamas infiltrated homes, killed civilians en masse, and took Israeli civilians and soldiers as hostages into Gaza. Hamas massacred 364 people at the Re'im music festival, and massacred the population of the Kfar Aza kibbutz. Hamas militants attacked the Psyduck festival, that took place near kibutz Nir Oz, killing 17 Israeli partygoers. Allegedly children were deliberately killed and possibly decapitated. However, some of the testimonies and claims about sexual assault were later found to be false.
October 2023: Associated Press reflects on the October 2023 attack and a possible truce
In April 2024, The Associated Press considered Hamas' willingness to agree to a truce of five years or more with Israel a "significant concession", but presumed that Israel would not even want to consider this scenario following the October 2023 attack.
October 2023: Accusations of Genocide and Calls for Elimination
In October 2023, following the start of the 2023 war, the European Parliament passed a motion stating the need for Hamas to be eliminated, and US President Biden echoed this sentiment. Additionally, Hamas was accused of committing genocide against Israelis by 240 legal experts on October 7, 2023.
October 2023: Hamas Attacks Israel
On 7 October 2023, Hamas and other Palestinian militants attacked Israel, resulting in significant casualties and the taking of Israeli hostages, leading to an Israeli invasion of the Gaza Strip and numerous Palestinian casualties.
October 2023: Hamas Claims Responsibility for Missile Attacks
On 7 October 2023, Hamas claimed responsibility for a barrage of missile attacks originating from the Gaza Strip.
October 2023: Haniyeh in Istanbul on the day of the attack on Israel; speaks with Erdoğan about Gaza war
On 7 October 2023, the day of the attack on Israel, Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh was in Istanbul, Turkey. Later that month, on 21 October 2023, Haniyeh spoke with Erdoğan about the latest developments in the Gaza war and the current situation in Gaza.
November 2023: Views on the October 7 attacks
From November 14 to December 6, 2023, 40% of Saudi participants expressed a positive view of Hamas, 95% of Saudis did not believe that Hamas killed civilians during the October 7 attacks, and only 16% of Saudis said Hamas should accept a two-state solution.
November 2023: Haniyeh offers political negotiations for a two-state solution
In November 2023, Ismail Haniyeh stated that if Israel agreed to a ceasefire in the Gaza war, opened humanitarian corridors, and allowed aid into Gaza, Hamas would be "ready for political negotiations for a two-state solution with Jerusalem as the capital of Palestine." Haniyeh also praised the support of movements in Yemen, Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon for the Palestinian struggle in November 2023.
November 2023: Rashid Khalidi comments on Likud's refusal to recognize Palestinian statehood
In November 2023, Rashid Khalidi stated that major Israeli governing parties like Likud have refused to recognize Palestinian statehood under any conditions, referencing "Judea and Samaria". He added that this stance has only intensified recently, with the Knesset passing a resolution opposing Palestinian statehood, highlighting the asymmetry in recognition between Hamas and Israeli political entities.
December 2023: Views on the October 7 attacks
From November 14 to December 6, 2023, 40% of Saudi participants expressed a positive view of Hamas, 95% of Saudis did not believe that Hamas killed civilians during the October 7 attacks, and only 16% of Saudis said Hamas should accept a two-state solution.
2023: Hamas investment portfolio
As of 2023, U.S. officials estimated Hamas's investment portfolio to be worth between 500 million and US$1 billion, with assets in various countries. Hamas has denied these allegations.
2023: UN Motion to Condemn Hamas Rejected
In 2023, a motion at the United Nations to condemn Hamas was rejected.
2023: Ongoing War with Israel after October 7 Attacks
Since 2023, specifically beginning with the October 7 attacks, Hamas has been engaged in an ongoing war with Israel.
January 2024: Mashal rejects the two-state solution
In January 2024, Khaled Mashal slighted "The West" and "the two-state solution", asserting that the 1967 borders represent an unacceptably small portion of Palestine and reiterated Hamas' claim to all of Palestine "from the sea to the river." However, Mashal also stated that Hamas "accepts a state on the 1967 borders with Jerusalem as its capital, with complete independence and with the right of return without recognising the legitimacy of the Zionist entity" in January 2024.
February 2024: New Zealand Redesignates Hamas as a Terror Entity
In late February 2024, New Zealand re-designated the entire Hamas organisation as a terror entity.
April 2024: Hamas expresses willingness to agree to a truce
In April 2024, Hamas Member of Parliament Khalil al-Hayya stated that Hamas is willing to agree to a truce of five years or more with Israel and that it would lay down its weapons and convert into a political party if an independent Palestinian state is established along pre-1967 borders.
May 2024: Shift in Hamas Popularity
In May 2024, a poll showed that Hamas's popularity in Gaza had fallen, with only a quarter of Gazans supporting Hamas. However, in the West Bank, 76% of Palestinians viewed Hamas positively. Views on the October 7 attacks among Gazans plummeted from 50% to 24%.
July 2024: Assassination of Ismail Haniyeh by Israel
Ismail Haniyeh, the highest Hamas leader was assassinated by Israel in July 2024.
August 2024: Election of Yahya Sinwar
In August 2024, Yahya Sinwar was elected chairman of Hamas.
September 2024: Switzerland Approves Draft Law to Ban Hamas
In September 2024, Switzerland approved a draft law to ban Hamas.
October 2024: Death of Yahya Sinwar
On 16 October 2024, IDF troops killed Sinwar during a routine patrol.
2024: Financial activities and sanctions
In 2024, financial activities in Gaza are mainly conducted through money changers to bypass international authorities. Also in 2024, the European Council added six individuals and three businesses to its sanctions list for assisting in funding Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad.
January 2025: Confirmation of Mohammed Deif's Death
In January 2025, Hamas confirmed that its senior military chief, Mohammed Deif, was killed by Israel's military in July the previous year.
January 2025: Ceasefire Between Hamas and Israel
On 19 January 2025, a ceasefire between Hamas and Israel went into effect.
February 2025: Hamas Condemns Israeli Attacks on Syria
In February 2025, Hamas condemned Israeli attacks on Syria.
March 2025: Israel Breaks Ceasefire
On 18 March 2025, Israel broke the ceasefire and shelling of the territory continued. In March 2025, Ismail Barhoum, a member of Hamas’s political bureau was killed in an Israeli attack on Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis.
April 2025: Hamas Appeals Terrorist Designation in Britain
In April 2025, Hamas filed a legal case in Britain appealing its designation as a terrorist group. Hamas politician Mousa Abu Marzook argued that Hamas is not a terrorist group but a Palestinian Islamic liberation movement.
April 2025: Paraguay Expands Designation of Hamas
In April 2025, Paraguay expanded its designation of Hamas as a terrorist organisation.
April 2025: Death of Yahya Fathi Abd al-Qader Abu Shaar
In April 2025, according to the IDF, Yahya Fathi Abd al-Qader Abu Shaar, the head of Hamas' weapons smuggling network, was killed by the Israeli army.
May 2025: Unconfirmed Reports of Mohammed Sinwar's Death
In May 2025, there were unconfirmed reports that Mohammed Sinwar, Hamas leader in Gaza and the brother of Yahya Sinwar, and Muhammad Shabana, commander of the Rafah Brigade, were killed by Israeli airstrike in the southern Gaza Strip.
June 2025: Confirmation of Mohammed Sinwar's Death
In June 2025, the Israeli military confirmed that it had identified the body of Mohammed Sinwar through DNA checks.
2025: Hamas equates Gaza events to 'Auschwitz of the 21st century'
In 2025, Hamas stated that what it calls the Gaza genocide is "the Auschwitz of the 21st century", drawing a parallel between the situation in Gaza and the Holocaust.
2025: US Envoy Adam Boehler Talks Directly with Hamas
In early 2025, the US' Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs, Adam Boehler, engaged in direct talks with Hamas, aiming to secure the release of American hostages. Following these discussions in 2025, Boehler suggested Hamas proposed a 5 to 10-year ceasefire and a full prisoner exchange.
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