Masked fighters from the Palestinian group Hamas publicly executed eight rivals in Gaza City this week, as captured in a widely circulated video. The executions, confirmed by Hamas officials, come just days after a cease-fire with Israel and are seen as an attempt by Hamas to reassert its authority in the territory after years of war and internal dissent. The violence stems from ongoing clashes between Hamas and rival Palestinian clans, some of which have been backed by Israel in efforts to undermine Hamas's control. The crackdown has left dozens dead and heightened tensions among Gaza's fractured factions, complicating international efforts to stabilize the region. As Hamas vows to eliminate what it calls criminal gangs, smaller militias and rival groups are preparing to defend themselves, raising fears of further internecine conflict.

Original article source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/15/world/middleeast/hamas-crackdown-rivals-gaza.html
Source Id: 2025-10-862993266