The October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas, marked by the infiltration of about 4,000 militants, resulted in the deaths of around 1,200 Israelis and the kidnapping of approximately 250, revealing Hamas’s longstanding intent for violence against Israel, as evidenced by statements from its leaders and actions during the assault, which aimed to incite a broader regional conflict. Despite internal disagreements and misjudgments regarding external support from allies like Iran and Hezbollah, the operation, named Al Aqsa Flood, was meticulously planned to catalyze the “liberation” of Palestine and the destruction of Israel.