Fatal Fighting Erupt Between the Hamas movement and Gaza-based Family Group in Gaza
The southern Gaza city saw some of the most intense domestic fighting since hostilities commenced, between Hamas security personnel against gunmen from the al-Mujaida clan - among the biggest clans in the southern region.
According to Hamas officials, its security personnel carried out an operation in the neighborhood to detain people suspected of cooperating with Israel.
On the other hand, resident testimonies described an attack by about fifty armed individuals riding in five pickup trucks, carrying assault rifles and RPG launchers, who entered forcefully the al-Mujaida neighborhood and killed five individuals from the clan.
Armed relatives rapidly responded, triggering hours-long gun battles with heavy exchanges of fire.
Reports circulating on online platforms – challenging to confirm – suggest that at least 11 Hamas members were eliminated, with multiple remains reportedly paraded in the public areas.
Recordings extensively circulated on the internet, that haven't been confirmed, appear to show multiple wounded casualties in combat uniforms, featuring a voiceover claiming they pertained to Hamas's "Sahm Unit".
Another clip recorded sustained shooting and a rocket-propelled grenade hitting a apartment block in the area.
Local elders later intervened to mediate between the opposing groups, leading to an exchange of bodies designed to control the deterioration.
Although the underlying causes remain unclear, the clash has heightened apprehension among local population.
Many are concerned that widespread weapons, hostilities between major families and Hamas's political dominance could develop into scenes similar to domestic warfare in a territory already gripped by displacement, damage, and concern of further lawlessness.
Observers indicate that the level of hostility which Hamas confronts from its many opponents – whom it has humiliated during its 17 years rule – is thought to be a key factor driving the group to decline the truce agreement.
Furthermore, there is concern of bloody revenge, of facing execution in the streets, since the proposal mandates Hamas to fully surrender weapons.
Reports state that the leader of Hamas's military wing in Gaza has expressed disagreement regarding the proposal, which was presented recently.
The agreement includes a deadline for Hamas to agree or face significant repercussions.
