What caused the 2008–09 conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip?

The 2008–09 conflict between Israel and Hamas was preceded by a period of heightened tension following Hamas's takeover of the Gaza Strip in 2007. In response, Israel declared the territory a hostile entity and imposed a blockade, which included sanctions, border closures, and restrictions on imports.123

While Israel and Hamas agreed to a six-month truce in June 2008, the agreement was undermined by mutual accusations of violations. When the truce officially expired on December 19, 2008, Hamas announced it would not extend the agreement. Hostilities escalated shortly thereafter, with Israel launching a series of air strikes in response to sustained rocket fire from the Gaza Strip. Following a week of aerial bombardment, Israel initiated a ground offensive into the territory. The conflict lasted 22 days and concluded with both sides declaring a unilateral cease-fire.12