THE ISREAL HAMAS WAR AND WAR AGAINST TERRORISM IN THE MIDDLE EAST

ABSTRACT The study examined Israel-Hamas war and war against terrorism in the Middle East which is a critical episode in the broader context of the war against terrorism in the Middle East. This conflict, rooted in deep historical, political, and religious tensions, represents a significant challenge to regional stability. Hamas, designated as a terrorist organization by Israel, the United States, and the European Union, has been involved in prolonged armed conflict with Israel, further complicating efforts to achieve peace. The war against terrorism in the Middle East encompasses a wider struggle, involving state and non-state actors, including militant groups and international coalitions, with varying objectives and allegiances. The study adorpted Secondary/qualitative method of data collection in which many afore related literatures were reviewed. Review was drawn from academic articles, textbooks, online materials, journals and magazine articles, and the Internet. The study is anchored on two relevant theoretical perspectives namely: Realism (International Relations Theory) and Constructivism (International Relations Theory). The findings of the study shows that the Middle East’s involvement in the global war on terror has diverted resources away from development and toward security, contributing to the region’s economic instability. Politically, the Israel-Hamas conflict has further destabilized the region, contributing to the breakdown of state structures in countries like Syria and Iraq, which have become battlegrounds for both local conflicts and global terrorist movements. The study recommends among others, Address Political Grievances and Governance Failures.