Hamas Rebuilds Control in Gaza by Recruiting Youth and Enforcing Heavy Taxes

One week after the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, Hamas is actively restoring its control by recruiting new operatives aged 18 to 20, who are armed with Kalashnikov rifles and paid between 600 to 700 shekels, according to Gaza residents speaking to N12. These recruits wear civilian clothes and masks and are stationed at key intersections. Despite the relative calm, Hamas continues to instill deep fear and suppress any civilian dissent. Residents report that masked gunmen immediately shoot anyone who dares to protest, curse, criticize on social media, or organize demonstrations, aiming to prevent uprisings.

Hamas operatives and intelligence centers are reportedly embedded within hospital complexes, while fighters monitor street activities. The issue of disarmament remains highly contentious among locals, who doubt Hamas will relinquish its weapons. Houssam al-Astal, a commander of an armed militia in Khan Yunis opposing Hamas, warned that if Hamas surrenders its arms, it will be the people, not opposing forces or Israel, who will exact retribution due to Hamas's history of killing many.

Another resident, identified as M., accused Hamas of deception, suggesting any disarmament would be merely symbolic and limited. To rebuild its strength, Hamas is imposing heavy taxes on merchants, ranging from 18% to 40%, and on products such as cigarettes, further tightening its grip on Gaza's economy and society.