Fatal Clashes Ignite Between the Hamas movement and Gaza-based Clan in Gaza
Khan Younis, located in southern Gaza witnessed one of the fiercest internal confrontations since hostilities commenced, pitting Hamas security personnel against gunmen from the al-Mujaida clan - among the biggest clans in southern Gaza.
As stated by Hamas, its security personnel carried out an operation in the neighborhood to apprehend people suspected of cooperating with Israeli authorities.
On the other hand, local accounts detailed an attack by about 50 men traveling in multiple vehicles, equipped with assault rifles and a rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) launcher, who invaded the al-Mujaida quarter and fatally shot five members from the family.
Armed relatives rapidly responded, sparking prolonged clashes with heavy exchanges of fire.
Accounts circulating on online platforms – hard to authenticate – claim that more than 11 Hamas personnel were fatally wounded, with multiple remains allegedly dragged through the streets.
Footage extensively circulated online, without independent verification, purportedly display multiple wounded casualties in combat uniforms, along with a audio commentary alleging they belonged to Hamas's "military division".
Another clip captured bursts of gunfire and a rocket-propelled grenade striking a housing structure in the district.
Local elders subsequently stepped in to negotiate between the opposing groups, resulting in an transfer of remains intended to limit the deterioration.
While the underlying causes are still uncertain, the clash has increased apprehension among local population.
Many fear that widespread weapons, tensions between powerful families and Hamas's political dominance could escalate into situations similar to internal conflict in a territory already gripped by population movement, destruction, and concern of further lawlessness.
Observers suggest that the extent of resentment which Hamas encounters from its many opponents – groups that have been suppressed during its lengthy in power – is believed to be a major element driving the group to reject the ceasefire plan.
Moreover, there is fear of bloody revenge, of meeting violent ends in the public spaces, since the agreement requires Hamas to give up all arms.
Sources state that the commander of Hamas's combat unit in Gaza has voiced opposition regarding the plan, which was announced recently.
The agreement includes a cut-off point for Hamas to comply or confront serious outcomes.
