Political Discussion: Israel vs. Palenstine

Hey Hey, friends and family! I've been away for so long but our gracious new leader Steve has allowed me to continue to post when time allows it. So I have been watching this developing conflict between Israel and Palestine and I'm going to come at this in all humility knowing that I as an American I can never fully appreciate this conflict. Hence I didn't even attempt to host this as a debate. With all the wise folks in the group, I wanted to explore these fundamental questions below.

Is Israel justified in declaring war?

If so is the reason for the war deeper than the attack against Israel? I'm thinking about the American Revolution for example where it would be silly to say that the war was over a tea tax.

What has Israel been doing to the Palestinians and vice versa leading up that may have contributed to the conflict and is anything of this history pertinent to defining the terms of peace?

What should be the red lines during this conflict or can there be?

Why is it necessary to expel the Palestinians?

Does Hamas have any legitimacy and what is the core role for Palestinians?

All important questions should the US get involved in this conflict?

If so how so? To ensure victory for Israel? To ensure peace? Maintain humanitarian principles? Prevent escalation? Increase defensive and offense capabilities?

What are the major points if any to enforce that America should or should not get involved?

Obviously, with this discussion, I will let the conversation evolve. But I missed all of your wonderful faces and I hope to see you soon!