Hamas Reinforces Security Amid Rising Tensions in Gaza

Sun Oct 12 2025 17:23:50 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In a dramatic escalation, Hamas mobilizes security forces in Gaza following internal violence that has left the group vulnerable and facing potential civil unrest.

Hamas has recalled approximately 7,000 members to reassert control over areas in Gaza, amid fears of escalating internal conflict following the deaths of two elite forces members. The group has deployed armed units to various districts, raising concerns about civil unrest and the implications for governance in the war-torn region.

Hamas has recalled about 7,000 members of its security forces to reassert control over areas of Gaza recently vacated by Israeli troops, according to local sources.

The Palestinian group also appointed five new governors, all with military backgrounds, some of whom previously commanded brigades in its armed wing.

The mobilisation order was reportedly issued via phone calls and text messages which said the aim was to cleanse Gaza of outlaws and collaborators with Israel and told fighters to report within 24 hours.

Reports from Gaza suggest that armed Hamas units have already deployed across several districts, some wearing civilian clothes and others in the blue uniforms of the Gaza police.

Tensions rose sharply after two members of Hamas's elite forces were shot dead by gunmen from the powerful Dughmush clan in Gaza City's Sabra neighbourhood. One of them was the son of a senior commander in Hamas's armed wing, Imad Aqel, who now heads the group's military intelligence.

The violent act triggered anger within Hamas, leading to a significant armed response and a show of force aimed at quelling dissent.

This morning Hamas killed one Dughmush clan member and reportedly kidnapped another 30.

Some weapons within the clan stem from looting during the conflict, further complicating the security landscape.

The ongoing mobilization comes in the wake of rising fears regarding Hamas's ability to govern effectively as uncertainty looms over the future of Gaza.

A Hamas official stated, We cannot leave Gaza at the mercy of thieves and militias backed by the Israeli occupation, indicating the group's commitment to maintaining control amid mounting internal challenges.

Experts are expressing concern about the potential for a civil war in Gaza, pointing to a volatile mix of arms, frustration, and chaos that the region is currently experiencing.

Khalil Abu Shammala, a human rights expert in Gaza, highlighted the critical situation and the possibility of further strife as Hamas navigates pressure from various fronts while attempting to keep its influence intact.

Many Gazans, already weary from ongoing conflict, feel apprehensive about the potential for escalated violence in their communities.