Gaza Herald – Israeli military sources told Haaretz that Hamas has significantly strengthened its presence in Gaza since the ceasefire began, maintaining authority despite the immense destruction and humanitarian catastrophe caused by Israel’s genocidal war.
According to the army’s assessments, Israel-backed local militias that were meant to challenge Hamas’ control have collapsed or been neutralized, with several of their members reportedly killed in recent weeks.
Military officials admitted that Hamas retained thousands of members throughout the war, assigning them one main task: to restore governance and order once the fighting stopped. The group now exerts influence over key civil, municipal, and administrative structures, reinstating public services and stability across the Strip.
The report also notes that Palestinian security forces in Gaza are actively working to enforce law and order and combat looting and criminal activity that emerged during the devastation.
Within Israeli security circles, there is growing concern that Turkey’s potential involvement as a monitoring or mediating power could further bolster Hamas’ legitimacy and influence.
Despite Israeli expectations of widespread public unrest due to the dire living conditions, no large-scale protests have occurred, and Hamas’ rule remains largely unchallenged inside Gaza.
