Hamas on Monday announced it has recalled 7,000 members of its security forces to “cleanse Gaza of outlaws and collaborators,” including militiamen armed by Israel, raising concerns about potential internal conflict in the densely populated enclave.
The announcement comes as the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) begin pulling back troops, fulfilling their role in a historic peace agreement brokered by President Trump, his son-in-law Jared Kushner, and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff.
With the IDF stepping back and Hamas weakened after two years of war with Israel, analysts warn that internal Palestinian factions may now be jockeying for control.
“Gaza is flooded with arms. Looters have stolen thousands of weapons and rounds of ammunition from Hamas stores during the war, and some groups have even received supplies from Israel,” a former Palestinian Authority security officer told the BBC on Monday. “This is a perfect recipe for civil war: weapons, frustration, chaos, and a movement desperate to reassert control over a shattered and exhausted population.”
In a statement, Hamas said it is “imposing order and restoring security and stability following the cease-fire.” The group has also cited support from a local organization called “The Gaza City Families Gathering,” which praised Hamas for “enforcing order and protecting the lives and property of citizens.”
“Gaza will rise again, strong with the will of its people, and capable of restoring life despite all attempts at confusion and disruption directed by the occupation,” the group added.
Phase two of the peace agreement calls for the disarmament of Hamas. So far, the organization has rejected disarmament, requesting further talks before any steps are taken. According to senior Israeli officials, thousands of Palestinians resisted Hamas control throughout the recent conflict.
Tensions are also rising between Hamas and Gaza’s Al Qaeda-linked Dughmush clan, a long-time rival. At least 27 people were killed during intense street fighting between Hamas forces and Dughmush clan members near Gaza City’s Jordanian Hospital, the BBC reported.