Hamas is a Palestinian militant group and political organization that governs the Gaza Strip. It is designated as a terrorist organization by Israel, the United States, the European Union, and other countries. Hamas is known for carrying out attacks against Israeli civilians and military targets, as well as engaging in armed conflicts with Israel. It rejects Israel’s existence in its founding charter, though its political stance has evolved over time. The group also provides social services in Gaza, but its rule has been marked by internal repression and economic difficulties.