Hamas takes control of Gaza again during the ceasefire, seizing command of family militias and triggering internal conflicts

Under the mediation of the United States, the Israel-Hamas ceasefire agreement temporarily halted the fighting, but a new round of internal power struggles in the Gaza Strip quickly erupted. Taking advantage of the Israeli military withdrawal, Hamas mobilized armed forces to return to urban areas, openly demonstrating that it "remains the governing power in Gaza," and launched a purge against local armed families, leading to fierce clashes and public executions.According to reports, last week Hamas forces clashed with the local Dogmush family around a hospital in Gaza City, resulting in dozens of deaths. Online videos showed several family members being forcibly taken to a public square and executed, causing public panic. Analysts pointed out that this marks Hamas' effort to restore its governance during the ceasefire period and eliminate potential rivals through tough measures.Independent analyst Haniya noted that Hamas is trying to "prove to the outside world that no one can replace their rule." During his visit to Israel, U.S. President Trump acknowledged allowing Hamas to "temporarily manage Gaza's security," but warned that "if they do not disarm, the U.S. will take action to neutralize their weapons."Hamas' governing base has been severely weakened by the conflicts over the past two years. Some Gaza families and local armed groups seized the opportunity to expand their influence, even accepting support from the Israeli military to counterbalance Hamas. With the ceasefire in effect, Hamas turned to internal consolidation, forming a "deterrence force" to carry out large-scale arrests and "purges," claiming it will "maintain order with an iron hand."The focus of the conflict, besides the Dogmush family, also affected the Abu Samra and Majayed families. Several Palestinian mediators warned that Gaza society could slide into civil war. Some families have declared loyalty to the Hamas government and surrendered their weapons to avoid larger-scale bloodshed.Israel is closely monitoring the situation. Analysts believe that Hamas' actions reflect the consequences of "governing in a vacuum." Since Israel refuses to allow the Palestinian Authority to return to Gaza, the area lacks alternative governance forces, enabling Hamas to strengthen its control amid the chaos.