Hamas operatives in Gaza have been conducting public executions of perceived adversaries in a bid to regain authority following a recent ceasefire with Israel. In a disturbing video, a group of armed individuals were seen shooting eight blindfolded men kneeling in front of a jeering crowd, accused of collaborating with Israel by Hamas militants.
The ongoing power struggle between Hamas and rival factions has led to numerous deaths since last weekend. Despite this, US President Donald Trump has downplayed the situation, stating it does not greatly concern him. The Palestinian Authority, governing the West Bank, has condemned the executions as “heinous crimes” and called for the reinstatement of legitimate Palestinian leadership in Gaza to prevent further turmoil.
Prior to the recent conflicts, Hamas held firm control over Gaza. However, during Israel’s prolonged bombardment, influential local families and armed groups filled the void, with some accused of misappropriating aid for personal gain, exacerbating a hunger crisis. Over the weekend, clashes erupted between Hamas forces and an armed faction associated with the powerful Doghmush family following the killing of a Hamas militant, Mohammed Aqel.
The Aqel family reported that armed individuals had abducted, robbed, and murdered Mohammed Aqel. Additionally, the al-Muqaid family recounted an attack on their members, resulting in one death and another critically injured. Initially distancing themselves from the gang’s actions, the Doghmush family later criticized Hamas’ executions as unnecessary brutality.
Recently, the Hamas-affiliated security force Radaa announced a widespread security operation across Gaza targeting individuals collaborating with the occupation and their allies. Another statement on a Hamas-linked channel defended the executions as following legal procedures, citing collaboration with Israel or other security offenses as reasons for the actions.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu demanded Hamas adhere to the ceasefire terms and return the bodies of all 28 deceased hostages still in Gaza. Although four bodies were handed over after Israeli threats to cut aid, the IDF has disputed the identity of one body. Netanyahu affirmed Israel’s commitment to bringing back all deceased hostages, emphasizing that efforts will continue until the last body is returned.