Deadly Combat Ignite Between the Hamas movement and Gaza-based Family Group in Gaza
The southern Gaza city experienced some of the most intense internal confrontations since hostilities commenced, between Hamas security personnel against armed members from the al-Mujaida family - one of the largest families in southern Gaza.
According to Hamas, its forces conducted a raid in the district to detain people suspected of working with Israeli authorities.
On the other hand, local accounts detailed an armed assault by about 50 men traveling in five pickup trucks, equipped with assault rifles and a rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) launcher, who invaded the al-Mujaida quarter and fatally shot five individuals from the clan.
Clan fighters quickly fought back, sparking prolonged clashes with sustained gunfire.
Reports spreading through online platforms – challenging to confirm – indicate that more than 11 Hamas fighters were killed, with several corpses reportedly paraded in the streets.
Videos extensively circulated on the internet, that haven't been confirmed, appear to show multiple wounded casualties in combat uniforms, along with a voiceover claiming they pertained to Hamas's "Sahm Unit".
Another clip recorded automatic weapon fire and an RPG impacting a apartment block in the area.
Tribal mediators subsequently stepped in to facilitate talks among the conflicting parties, resulting in an transfer of remains aimed at contain the escalation.
Even though the exact motives continue to be ambiguous, the clash has heightened concern among Palestinians.
Many fear that abundance of firearms, tensions between powerful families and Hamas's grip on power could spiral into situations resembling civil war in a territory already experiencing forced relocation, damage, and anxiety of additional disorder.
Observers indicate that the extent of hostility which Hamas confronts from its many opponents – some of whom have been marginalized during its lengthy governance – is thought to be a major element influencing the movement to decline the ceasefire plan.
Furthermore, there is fear of bloody revenge, of meeting violent ends in the streets, since the plan mandates Hamas to give up all arms.
Reports suggest that the head of Hamas's combat unit in Gaza has voiced opposition regarding the plan, which was unveiled recently.
The ceasefire plan includes a cut-off point for Hamas to accept or confront significant repercussions.
