Hamas Criticism Grows Amid Ongoing Executions
A senior Hamas official recently justified the group’s actions in Gaza, while a local lawyer, who remains in hiding, revealed that the violent suppression of dissent is ongoing. Moumen al-Natur, a former political prisoner and lawyer, criticized Hamas for its resurgence after a ceasefire. He described a troubling scene where Hamas fighters emerged from their underground hideouts and attacked protesting families, claiming, “They’re sending a signal that they’re back by scaring people.”
In defense of the group’s actions, Hamas official Mohamed Nazar argued that there are always “exceptions” during wartime, suggesting that those executed were proven criminals.
On a related note, President Donald Trump recently warned Hamas via social media after videos surfaced showing their brutal executions of Palestinians in Gaza. He stated, “If Hamas continues to kill people in the Gaza Strip, contrary to the agreement, we will have no choice but to move in and kill them.” At least 33 executions have taken place as reported, with victims often linked to families accused of cooperating with Israel or rival factions.
Al-Natur also noted that various local militias are resisting Hamas, with groups like the Abu Shabaab clan active in Rafah, and the Domush family frequently clashing with Hamas in Gaza City. Despite not holding stable territories, these militias signal potentially growing dissent against Hamas’ control.
Moreover, al-Natur mentioned efforts to create a safe zone for non-Hamas affiliated civilians, aiming to provide food, aid, and protection. He expressed concern for those who dare to oppose Hamas, stating, “The people Hamas is killing now are just like me, Palestinians who dared to speak out.”
Joseph Braude, head of the Peace Communication Center, described these as dark times for Hamas critics in Gaza. He remarked, “They are trying to use this moment to reassert their superiority by force.” He also shared a video portraying the suffering of Gazans, including harrowing accounts of violence against children.
Broad, another analyst, pointed out the polarized reality in Gaza. He suggested the possibility of reconstruction in areas currently under Israeli surveillance, advocating for the formation of an autonomous enclave for some militias opposed to Hamas. He believed that international support could help establish a transitional authority.
Concerns remain regarding the implications of the ongoing situation, with many Gazans communicating feelings of confusion and fear. One resident encapsulated the precarious state: “No one knows who will rule or what will happen next. We just want to live a life without bloodshed.”
The ceasefire has been framed by Trump’s team as a foundation for lasting peace, but the persistent violence and emerging militias raise questions about whether Gaza is on the brink of a new cycle of conflict.
