In the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Hamas and other organizations are involved in a protracted conflict with Israel driven by historical, political, and territorial disputes. Intergroup conflicts often have deep-rooted psychological and emotional dimensions, fueled by perceptions of injustice, threat, and a desire for retaliation or liberation.

One psychological factor that can contribute to intergroup conflict is the perception of injustice. Groups involved in a conflict may perceive their own group’s actions as justified and the other group’s actions as unfair or unjust. This perception of injustice can lead to anger, resentment, and a desire for retribution. In the case of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, both sides have experienced historical injustices and have different narratives regarding the legitimacy of their claims to land and resources.

Threat perception is another psychological factor that plays a significant role in intergroup conflict. When groups perceive a threat to their security, identity, or well-being, they are more likely to engage in defensive behaviors and respond aggressively toward the perceived threat. In the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, both Israelis and Palestinians have expressed concerns about their safety, leading to heightened feelings of fear and mistrust toward each other.

A desire for retaliation or liberation is yet another psychological factor that can fuel intergroup conflict. Groups in conflict often hold strong beliefs about their right to defend themselves or achieve their goals. This belief can manifest in desires for retaliation against perceived acts of aggression or aspirations for liberation from perceived oppression. These desires can motivate individuals to engage in violence or resistance, perpetuating the cycle of conflict.