🔗 Share this article Fatal Combat Break Out Involving the Hamas movement and Palestinian Family Group in Gaza The group has exercised strict authority over the Gaza Strip since seizing power in 2007 The southern Gaza city saw some of the most intense domestic fighting since hostilities commenced, pitting Hamas security forces against armed members from the al-Mujaida family - among the biggest families in southern Gaza. According to Hamas, its security personnel conducted a raid in the district to arrest people alleged to be collaborating with Israeli authorities. On the other hand, resident testimonies described an offensive by approximately fifty armed individuals traveling in multiple vehicles, carrying assault rifles and RPG launchers, who stormed the al-Mujaida neighborhood and killed five members from the clan. Clan fighters immediately retaliated, sparking extended gun battles with intense exchanges of fire. Accounts shared via online platforms – challenging to confirm – claim that at least 11 Hamas personnel were eliminated, with some of their bodies allegedly dragged through the streets. Footage extensively circulated online, without independent verification, purportedly display numerous wounded bodies in military fatigues, featuring a audio commentary claiming they belonged to Hamas's "special forces unit". Another clip showed bursts of gunfire and an RPG striking a apartment block in the area. Tribal mediators subsequently stepped in to negotiate between the opposing groups, resulting in an exchange of bodies intended to limit the escalation. While the precise reasons remain unclear, the confrontation has heightened apprehension among Palestinians. A significant number fear that widespread weapons, hostilities between influential clans and Hamas's control over governance could spiral into situations reminiscent of internal conflict in a territory already gripped by forced relocation, devastation, and fear of increased chaos. Experts propose that the level of resentment which Hamas faces from its numerous adversaries – whom it has humiliated during its seventeen-year in power – is thought to be a key factor driving the movement to oppose the ceasefire plan. Furthermore, there is concern of deadly retaliation, of facing execution in the public spaces, since the agreement demands Hamas to give up all arms. Reports state that the leader of Hamas's combat unit in Gaza has shown reluctance regarding the initiative, which was unveiled recently. The agreement includes a time limit for Hamas to accept or encounter serious outcomes.