Hamas has begun deploying armed fighters and police across parts of Gaza in a bid to reassert authority following the ceasefire deal with Israel. Images showed dozens of fighters at a hospital in southern Gaza during the release of Israeli hostages on Monday, while reports emerged of shootings and executions elsewhere. Telegram channels linked to Hamas said “collaborators and traitors” had been targeted, referring to Israel-backed militias.
The violence is unlikely to immediately threaten the ceasefire but raises concerns over the disarmament of Hamas, a key but ill-defined provision of the deal. US President Donald Trump suggested Hamas was acting within the ceasefire parameters, stating: “They do want to stop the problems… we gave them approval for a period of time.”
On Monday, the first phase of the agreement saw Hamas release 20 living hostages, while Israel began freeing about 2,000 prisoners. Hundreds of aid trucks have entered Gaza since Sunday, lowering prices, but aid agencies warn much more is needed urgently. Looting by gangs and communities had previously hampered distribution.
The Israel Defense Forces have withdrawn to new positions, controlling just over half of Gaza. Much of the territory lies in ruins, with the population concentrated in al-Mawasi, central towns, and Gaza City. Hamas maintained low-profile control over these areas despite significant losses during the conflict, including most of its senior commanders and thousands of fighters.
Law and order has collapsed, with armed families, clans, and gangs growing more powerful. At the weekend, Hossam al-Astal, leader of a new Israel-aligned militia, issued a defiant message against Hamas. Meanwhile, a Hamas security official confirmed a hunt for Yasser Abu Shabab, leader of another Israel-backed militia, adding that one of his aides had been “liquidated”.
The Hamas-controlled Ministry of Interior in Gaza said it was working to restore “security and stability” but offered “repentance and general amnesty” for those who joined “gangs”.
