The Gaza Strip − why the history of the densely populated enclave is key to understanding the current conflict

The focus on conflict in the Middle East has again returned to the Gaza Strip, with Israel's defense minister ordering a “complete siege” of the Palestinian enclave. The military operation, which involves extensive bombing of residences, follows a surprise attack on Oct. 7, 2023, by Hamas militants who infiltrated Israel from Gaza and killed around 1,200 Israelis. In reprisal airstrikes, the Israel military has killed over 1,400 Gazans.