Israel-Hamas War: Insights from RAND

On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched a surprise assault on Israel, killing an estimated 1,200 people and taking nearly 200 more hostage. Israel responded with extensive air strikes on Gaza and a sweeping ground invasion aimed at destroying Hamas.

Urban warfare in Gaza has been devastating; tens of thousands of Palestinians, including many civilians, have been killed. So far, diplomatic efforts have failed to produce a clear path to lasting peace. Violence has also spread to other parts of the Middle East, stoking fears that the region is on the brink of a wider war.

What lessons does the past offer about this war? How can the humanitarian crisis be addressed? Is there potential for a peaceful resolution? RAND experts have been offering timely insights on these questions and more. Additionally, previously published RAND research provides important context for the conflict, the long-standing bloodshed between Israel and Hamas, and what might happen next.