Hamas Refuses to Disarm Amid Rising Power Struggle With Gaza Militias

The power dynamics in Gaza are currently shaped by three main forces: the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) controlling buffer zones and strategic routes, Hamas striving to maintain its military and political dominance, and emerging local militias seeking to establish themselves as alternative powers. A key issue in any future arrangement is control over weapons and security mechanisms. Israel demands that Hamas relinquish its military capabilities, but Hamas refuses to give up the core element that sustains its influence.

This disagreement has intensified tensions between Hamas and the local militias. Leaders of these militias told ynet that Hamas will not hand over its weapons. Hossam al-Astal, head of the Khan Yunis militia, stated, "It is impossible for Hamas to surrender its weapons. They know that if they do, the people will kill them, not us. This agreement will not progress." He emphasized that while other issues are negotiable, the weapons question is complex. Similarly, Rassan al-Dahini, leader of the Abu Shabab militia, asserted that Hamas will not relinquish its arms and that those under his command will not surrender anything.

Al-Dahini also highlighted the challenge posed by armed clans, saying, "We will also demand the weapons of the clans. All clans and families that refused contact with Israel served Hamas and hid weapons." He warned that if Israeli elections occur without a significant confrontation with Hamas, it would be perceived as weakness and a de facto peace with Hamas.

Meanwhile, after about 30 hours of relative calm, fighting resumed in Gaza on Monday. Palestinian reports indicated two fatalities and several injuries from an IDF drone strike targeting a vehicle near Al-Rashid Street in southwest Gaza City, alongside ongoing artillery fire in various areas. Hamas continues to urge mediators to halt the fighting and advance the second phase of the ceasefire agreement. A senior Hamas official said the group and Palestinian factions "adhere to the agreement" and await a clear response from mediators, including Nikolay Mladenov.

The situation remains far from a full ceasefire. The IDF maintains control over strategic zones and continues military pressure while an internal struggle over Gaza’s future leadership intensifies. Palestinian sources report that the IDF has recently pushed the "yellow line", the separation boundary between Israeli-controlled areas and Palestinian zones, westward by placing yellow concrete blocks, restricting Gaza residents’ movement. Israel describes this expansion as a security measure to increase buffer zones protecting forces and nearby communities.