Israel and Hamas 2023 Conflict In Brief: Overview, U.S. Policy, and Options for Congress

In response to the October 7 attacks, Israel’s cabinet formally declared war on Hamas. Israel has conducted aerial bombardment and ground operations in Gaza, and also has halted electricity, food, and fuel supplies to Gaza from Israeli territory.

Some life-sustaining goods are entering Gaza via Egypt, but U.S. and U.N. officials have sought to boost this aid. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced that Israel’s military objectives are “To destroy the military and governmental capabilities of Hamas and bring the hostages home.”