Hamas Seeks to Reassert Control in Gaza After Ceasefire, Sparking Concerns
Following the recent ceasefire deal with Israel, Hamas has reportedly sought to reassert its control in Gaza, leading to a series of violent incidents, including public executions, shootings and clashes with local families. The actions of the group, which have resulted in the reported deaths of over 30 Gazans, have raised concerns for disarmament considered crucial to the peace deal, according to The Guardian, Al Jazeera English and The Times of Israel.
Background and Context
After two years of conflict, a ceasefire agreement was signed last week, leading to the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza and the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. This has created a space for Hamas to regain control of the Palestinian territory, as reported by Folha de S.Paulo and La Repubblica.
Notable Incidents
Among the most notable incidents are the public executions of alleged collaborators and traitors
by Hamas fighters, as reported by The Guardian and Fox News. Graphic footage of these executions circulated on social media, drawing strong condemnation from international observers. The South China Morning Post reported that at least 33 people have been killed in a crackdown by Hamas on groups that have tested its grip on power.
In addition to the executions, there have been bloody clashes with powerful local families. Al Jazeera English reported that the Doghmush clan fought against Hamas in a clash that resulted in at least 27 deaths.
Implications and Reactions
The actions of Hamas have led to widespread concerns and criticism. ANSA reported that the Israel Defense Forces have claimed that the killing of various Palestinians violates the ceasefire agreement. Meanwhile, the administration of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has condemned the field executions carried out by Hamas, stating they have been carried out outside the framework of the law and without fair trials,
according to TASS.
US President Donald Trump, who brokered the ceasefire deal, has said that Hamas must disarm or it will be forced to do so. His comments were echoed by The Guardian and The South China Morning Post.
Despite the violent incidents, some Gazans have expressed hope for change and the possibility of getting rid of the terror regime, as reported by Fox News.
Current Status
As of now, the situation in Gaza remains tense, with Hamas seeking to reassert its control amid ongoing concerns about the fragility of the ceasefire and the future of the peace deal. The Tehran Times described the ceasefire agreement as a decisive failure for the Israeli occupation regime to eliminate Hamas or recover captives through military force,
while the Middle East Eye emphasized that there can be no peace without accountability for the industrial-scale killing or justice for Palestinians.