Seven Weeks of War: A Timeline of the Israel-Hamas Conflict

A notable development occurred when Hamas fighters released the first group of 24 hostages, including Israeli citizens and Thai workers, as part of a peace agreement. This marked the first cessation of hostilities in the Gaza Strip after a continuous seven-week conflict, with the promise of more hostages being set free.

Conflict Commencement

October 7: Surprise Offensive

The conflict was initiated by an unexpected attack from Hamas militants in Gaza on southern Israel. The assailants, resulting in the death of around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and the capture of over 240 hostages. Hamas military leader Mohammad Deif publicly announced the start of the attack, urging Palestinians to participate in the fight.

Israeli Counteraction

In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared a state of war. Israel quickly began air strikes against targets in Hamas-controlled Gaza, coupled with a comprehensive blockade of the area.

Conflict Intensifies with Global Implications

October 13-18: Evacuation and Hospital Catastrophe

The Israeli government ordered evacuations in Gaza City, which led to a serious humanitarian issue. A significant explosion at the al-Ahli al-Arabi Baptist hospital in Gaza City resulted in numerous casualties. Although Palestinians blamed an Israeli air strike, both Israel and a U.S. intelligence report indicated a misfired Palestinian rocket as the cause.

October 20: Rising Diplomatic Strains

A Middle East visit by U.S. President Joe Biden, expressing support for Israel and his comments on the hospital incident, resulted in the cancellation of an Arab leaders’ summit in Jordan.

Progress and Ongoing Hostilities

October 20-23: Release of Hostages

In a positive turn, Hamas freed two American hostages, and later, two elderly Israeli women were released on humanitarian grounds.

October 26-31: Escalated Israeli Military Action

The Israeli military ramped up its operations in Gaza, focusing on the Jabalia refugee camp with extensive raids and air strikes, causing significant casualties.

Concluding Stages of the War

November 1-15: Mass Evacuations and Hospital Standoff

Large-scale evacuations from Gaza occurred through the Rafah crossing. Concurrently, Israeli tanks moved towards Al Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, leading to a critical standoff.

November 21: Ceasefire Agreement

A temporary halt in hostilities was agreed upon between Israel and Hamas, dependent on the release of more hostages.

Conflict Aftermath

November 24: Complete Hostage Release

In a concluding act of the truce, Hamas released all remaining hostages, including both Israeli and international nationals, ushering in a brief period of calm in the ongoing conflict.

This summary chronicles the significant events of the intense seven-week war between Israel and Hamas, emphasizing the major developments and the substantial human toll on both sides. The narrative highlights the intricate and persistent nature of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.