Hamas Mobilizes Forces Amid Rising Internal Tensions in Gaza

Thu Oct 16 2025 22:23:11 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Hamas has mobilized approximately 7,000 security personnel in response to internal violence and unrest following recent tensions in Gaza, involving confrontations with a powerful local clan.

Hamas has recalled thousands of its security members to restore control in Gaza, following tensions after the killings of two of its elite forces by the Dughmush clan. Armed units are actively deployed to manage violence, raising fears of civil conflict among residents. The group has appointed new military governors and issued orders to combat perceived lawlessness, while the situation remains volatile and closely watched by local and international observers.

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 the deceased was the son of a prominent commander in Hamas's armed wing, raising the prospect of significant retaliation from the organization.

Hamas members later surrounded a large area where more than 300 Dughmush gunmen were believed to be holed up, equipped with weapons and explosives. The situation escalated quickly, leading to violence this morning where Hamas killed one Dughmush member and reportedly kidnapped another 30.

This recent uptick in violence and unrest comes as the region faces ongoing challenges following a devastating conflict, complicating any plans for future governance and peace negotiations. Experts express concerns that without resolving these internal disputes, the region might be headed towards further civil conflict.