Who Are Hamas - And Why Have They Attacked Israel?

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The attack on Israel by the Palestinian militant group, Hamas, is the most unprecedented in years - both in scope and scale. Fighters entered communities near the Gaza Strip, killing residents and taking hostages. Israel's vowed to reduce Hamas positions to rubble. The UK - which has declared Hamas a terrorist organisation - says Israel has the right to defend itself. Leaders of Hamas say this is their fightback against the world's longest illegal occupation. In the first few days, there've been thousands of casualties on both sides - deaths and injuries. Kevin Connolly worked as a BBC Correspondent in the Middle East for many years. In this episode of 5 Questions On, he explains all you need to know about the people and places involved - and the essential context to understand this story. Image Credit: Ronen Zvulun for Reuters