Hamas’s recent unprovoked attack on Israel serves as a stark reminder of the threat posed by radical Islam to the free world. The terror organization’s brutal tactics, including the indiscriminate firing of rockets and heinous acts against civilians, highlight the urgency of understanding the roots of such extremism.

To comprehend the rise of Hamas, it’s crucial to trace its origins back to the Muslim Brotherhood, a Sunni Islamic organization known for promoting Shariah law worldwide. The Brotherhood’s evolution from seemingly charitable activities to embracing political ambitions and jihad emphasizes the deceptive nature of radical Islam. The Iranian Revolution in 1979, led by Ayatollah Khomeini, exposed the true intentions of these groups, showing that radical Islam seeks not just religious influence but political power and the imposition of Shariah.

Hamas, breaking away from the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO), explicitly aims to replace Israel with a Shariah-ruled theocracy. The tragic consequences of the Gaza disengagement in 2005, when Israel withdrew unilaterally, provided Hamas with an opportunity to seize control and launch violent campaigns against Israeli civilians.

The international community must recognize that Hamas, not Israel, oppresses the people of Gaza. Protests should be directed at freeing Gaza from the grip of these Islamist extremists rather than misguidedly targeting Israel. The blockade exists to contain Hamas, and until the root cause of the issue is addressed, it remains a necessary measure for regional stability. The world must stand united against the true oppressor, Hamas, and work towards a future where the people of Gaza are free from the tyranny of radical Islamist rule.

Ben Troutman,

San Juan Island