Deadly Combat Break Out Between Hamas and Palestinian Family Group in Gaza
Khan Younis, located in southern Gaza witnessed one of the fiercest internal confrontations since the war began, between Hamas security personnel against gunmen from the al-Mujaida family - one of the largest families in southern Gaza.
Per Hamas officials, its security personnel conducted a raid in the area to arrest people accused of cooperating with Israeli authorities.
On the other hand, eyewitness reports recounted an offensive by about 50 men riding in multiple vehicles, equipped with assault rifles and RPG launchers, who entered forcefully the al-Mujaida quarter and killed five individuals from the family.
Family members with weapons quickly fought back, triggering prolonged confrontations with sustained gunfire.
Accounts circulating on social media – difficult to independently verify – indicate that over eleven Hamas personnel were eliminated, with some of their bodies allegedly paraded in the streets.
Recordings extensively circulated online, which remain unverified, appear to show several bloodied bodies in combat uniforms, along with a audio commentary alleging they pertained to Hamas's "Sahm Unit".
Additional footage recorded bursts of gunfire and an RPG impacting a apartment block in the area.
Community leaders eventually mediated to facilitate talks among the two sides, leading to an handover of casualties designed to contain the escalation.
While the precise reasons remain unclear, the confrontation has heightened concern among Gaza residents.
Many fear that proliferation of arms, friction between influential clans and Hamas's political dominance could escalate into situations reminiscent of domestic warfare in a area already gripped by forced relocation, damage, and anxiety of additional disorder.
Analysts suggest that the degree of anger which Hamas faces from its numerous adversaries – whom it has humiliated during its lengthy rule – is believed to be a major element motivating the group to reject the truce agreement.
Furthermore, there is apprehension of violent retribution, of meeting violent ends in the streets, since the plan mandates Hamas to completely disarm.
Indications suggest that the head of Hamas's combat unit in Gaza has expressed disagreement regarding the plan, which was unveiled recently.
The proposal includes a cut-off point for Hamas to agree or confront significant repercussions.
