Are Hamas forces threatening the next phase of the Gaza peace plan? | DW News

Key Concepts:

• Hamas Redeployment
• Security Vacuum
• Lawlessness
• Dmush Family
• Popular Forces Militia
• Abushab
• Israel-backed Palestinian gangs
• Gaza Peace Plan
• Multinational Peacekeeping Force

Hamas Redeployment and Stated Objectives

Hamas forces, identified by their civilian clothes and blue uniforms, have redeployed security personnel in areas of Gaza from which Israeli troops have withdrawn. The Hamas-run interior ministry has publicly stated that their presence is intended to prevent a "security vacuum" and "lawlessness" in these regions. This move signifies an attempt by Hamas to reassert its authority following the Israeli offensive, which is noted to have weakened its power in Gaza.

Challenges to Hamas Authority

Hamas's authority in Gaza has been significantly challenged in recent months by various clans and other armed groups. This week, specific clashes highlight these tensions:

• Clashes with the Dmush Family: Several members of Hamas's security forces were killed in confrontations with fighters from the powerful Dmush family in Gaza City. In retaliation, Hamas militants reportedly killed dozens of Dmush clan members. The relationship between Hamas and the Dmush family is described as long-standing and tense.
• The Popular Forces Militia: Hamas officials are actively hunting for Abushab, the leader of a militia known as the "Popular Forces." This group is explicitly described as an "Israel-backed militia." A commander for the Popular Forces has informed Israeli media of its ambition to serve as an "alternative to Hamas." UN aid workers have reported that the Popular Forces has a reputation for "looting UN aid trucks." The militia is currently believed to be operating within southern Gaza, an area where Israeli forces maintain a presence. Israel has acknowledged its practice of "arming Palestinian gangs opposed to Hamas."

Implications for Future Peace Efforts

The current security landscape in Gaza presents significant complications for any future peace initiatives.

• Hamas's Stance on Disarmament: Hamas has publicly declared that it "will not give up its weapons until a Palestinian state is established," a position that directly conflicts with previous peace proposals.
• President Trump's Gaza Peace Plan: While President Trump's plan had initially called for Hamas to "eventually disarm," he recently stated that he had given them approval for "a period of time to police Gaza." This statement introduces ambiguity regarding the disarmament timeline.
• Potential for Inter-Group Violence: The ongoing and potential violence between rival groups, such as Hamas, the Dmush family, and the Popular Forces, could severely complicate the next phase of any peace plan.
• Uncertainty of Peacekeeping Deployment: The timeline for the deployment of a "new multinational peacekeeping force in Gaza" remains unclear, adding to the instability and lack of a clear path forward.

Synthesis and Conclusion

Hamas is actively attempting to re-establish control in areas of Gaza vacated by Israeli forces, citing the need to prevent a security vacuum. However, its authority is being vigorously contested by powerful local clans and Israel-backed militias, leading to violent confrontations and a highly volatile security environment. This complex internal dynamic, coupled with Hamas's steadfast refusal to disarm and the uncertain deployment of international peacekeeping forces, creates substantial obstacles for any future peace plan, highlighting a deeply fragmented and unstable post-conflict landscape in Gaza.