2006 Gaza strip takeover by Hamas

The 2006 takeover of the Gaza Strip by Hamas marked a pivotal moment in the Israel-Palestine conflict. This event followed the January 2006 Palestinian legislative elections, where Hamas, an Islamist political organization and militant group, won a surprising majority. The victory of Hamas, which opposes the existence of Israel, led to increased tensions with the Fatah party, culminating in violent clashes. By June 2006, Hamas had effectively taken control of the Gaza Strip, establishing its rule and leading to a bifurcation of Palestinian governance, with the Fatah-dominated Palestinian Authority retaining control in the West Bank. This shift significantly impacted the dynamics of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the broader Middle Eastern political landscape.