Watch Inside Hamas

Inside Hamas is a documentary film that offers a rare inside look into the everyday life, philosophy, and political activities of Hamas, the militant Islamist group that governs the Gaza Strip. The film provides an insightful analysis of the context in which Hamas operates, and the challenges it faces from Israel, the United States, and other regional players.

The film is directed by Canadian filmmaker Martin Himel, who is known for his expertise in covering Middle East conflicts. Himel and his team work with a network of trusted Palestinian and Israeli sources to gain access to the inner workings of Hamas, and to document the views and actions of the political and military leaders of the organization.

The documentary begins by setting the historical and political context for Hamas's emergence as a major force in Palestinian politics. It traces the events leading up to the first Palestinian Intifada in 1987, which marked a turning point in the struggle against Israeli occupation, and the subsequent rise of Hamas as a political and military force.

Through interviews with current and former Hamas leaders, including Ahmed Yassin, Ismail Haniyeh, and Khaled Mashal, the film explores the evolution of the group's ideology and tactics, and the challenges posed by the changing political landscape of the Middle East. Himel and his team also document the militant activities of Hamas, including rocket attacks on Israel, suicide bombings, and other actions designed to achieve Hamas's goal of a "liberated Palestine".

However, the film is not just a dry analysis of the group's ideology and tactics. It also offers a glimpse into the daily lives of Hamas leaders and activists, and the challenges they face in navigating the complex and dangerous political terrain of the Gaza Strip. For example, the filmmakers accompany a young Hamas leader as he takes part in the rebuilding efforts after the 2014 war with Israel, and they document the harsh living conditions faced by ordinary Palestinians under the Israeli blockade.

One of the most compelling parts of the film is its exploration of the internal politics of Hamas, and the tensions between the organization's political and military wings. The filmmakers interview a number of young Hamas activists who are critical of the leadership's approach, and who advocate for a more aggressive and confrontational strategy against Israel. The film also examines the role of Hamas's military wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades, and the challenges it faces in balancing its military operations with the need to avoid civilian casualties.

Overall, Inside Hamas is a well-crafted exploration of one of the most controversial and misunderstood groups in the Middle East. It provides a nuanced analysis of Hamas's motivations and tactics, and offers a humanizing portrait of the group's members and supporters. The film is a must-watch for anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and the role that Hamas plays in shaping this ongoing struggle.