Lethal Clashes Ignite Involving the Hamas movement and Gaza-based Family Group in Gaza
The southern Gaza city witnessed some of the most intense internal confrontations since the conflict started, between Hamas security personnel against gunmen from the al-Mujaida clan - one of the largest clans in the southern region.
According to Hamas, its forces conducted a raid in the district to detain individuals suspected of cooperating with Israeli authorities.
On the other hand, local accounts recounted an offensive by about 50 men riding in five pickup trucks, armed with automatic weapons and a rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) launcher, who stormed the al-Mujaida neighborhood and fatally shot five individuals from the clan.
Armed relatives immediately retaliated, sparking prolonged clashes with heavy exchanges of fire.
Accounts shared via social media – challenging to confirm – claim that over eleven Hamas members were eliminated, with some of their bodies allegedly pulled along the public areas.
Videos extensively circulated on the internet, which remain unverified, purportedly display numerous wounded casualties in military fatigues, along with a audio commentary alleging they were members of Hamas's "Sahm Unit".
Additional footage recorded automatic weapon fire and an RPG impacting a housing structure in the district.
Tribal mediators eventually mediated to mediate among the two sides, culminating in an transfer of remains intended to control the intensification.
Even though the precise reasons are still uncertain, the incident has increased apprehension among local population.
Many are concerned that widespread weapons, tensions between influential clans and Hamas's political dominance could develop into situations resembling civil war in a territory already gripped by forced relocation, devastation, and fear of further lawlessness.
Observers indicate that the extent of resentment which Hamas confronts from its many opponents – whom it has humiliated during its 17 years in power – is considered a significant component influencing the group to oppose the truce agreement.
Furthermore, there is fear of violent retribution, of being killed in the streets, since the agreement requires Hamas to fully surrender weapons.
Reports state that the leader of Hamas's military wing in Gaza has shown reluctance regarding the plan, which was presented recently.
The ceasefire plan includes a deadline for Hamas to accept or confront severe consequences.