Eight men accused of collaborating with Israel were executed in Gaza City. They were blindfolded, made to kneel, and shot at point-blank range in a public display of violence. This incident is part of a broader campaign by Hamas to reassert control over local families and militias that have challenged its authority during the recent conflict. The Astal militia, which had reportedly coordinated with Israel, was specifically targeted by Hamas fighters who pursued them in jeeps.

Hamas has shifted its focus from fighting Israel to consolidating power within Gaza. The group is conducting armed raids and public executions to send a message that it remains the dominant authority in the region. Rival militia leaders and political analysts note that Hamas is attempting to regain control after months of conflict, during which various clans and gangs gained influence.

The implications of Hamas's actions are significant for Gaza's future and for ongoing peace negotiations. Under a ceasefire brokered by the Trump administration, Hamas is regaining control of civil administration and preparing for discussions about disarmament. Trump's peace plan requires Hamas to disarm and relinquish its role in governance, but details remain vague. As negotiations approach, Hamas is expected to leverage its position, arguing for the necessity of retaining some weapons for personal protection.

Hamas officials have publicly stated their willingness to step back from governance, but privately, they assert their importance in Gaza's social and administrative landscape. They may seek to rebrand themselves as a political party while maintaining influence over local governance. Negotiations with Israel regarding disarmament and governance are anticipated to be lengthy and complex.

President Trump has indicated he would allow Hamas to govern temporarily and expressed indifference toward the group's recent violent actions against rival gangs. He acknowledged that Hamas's actions against certain gangs did not concern him, suggesting that the group is restoring order in Gaza.

Hamas has framed its crackdown on rival clans as a necessary step toward normalcy. Following the ceasefire, the group appointed new governors to oversee Gaza's urban areas and has shared videos of its fighters managing traffic. Hamas's social media accounts describe their actions against rival clans as efforts to enforce the law, particularly against those accused of smuggling and extortion.

Some Gazan factions have supported Hamas's law enforcement efforts, condemning those who collaborated with Israel. The Radea security forces, part of Hamas's internal security, stated, "Our merciful hand is extended to anyone who repents. Returning to the national fold is still possible at this stage."

However, the ongoing violence raises concerns about a potential civil war among Palestinian factions. Some observers fear that the internal conflict could deepen divisions within the Palestinian community, which may benefit Israel, as it has reportedly supported anti-Hamas militias during the conflict.

Israeli security analysts have noted Hamas's strategic planning and coordination in its recent actions. Despite facing intense military pressure, Hamas appears to have anticipated a ceasefire and has focused on consolidating its power internally. Analysts suggest that Hamas has been preparing for reprisals against clans that threatened its authority during the war.

The tensions between Hamas and powerful families in Gaza have historical roots, dating back to Hamas's rise to power in 2007. The group has previously targeted families affiliated with rival factions, leading to deep-seated animosities. Recent conflicts have reignited these tensions, with accusations of theft and hoarding of humanitarian aid leading to violent confrontations.

As the situation in Gaza continues to evolve, the potential for civil unrest remains high, with many families feeling threatened by Hamas's actions. The future of governance and stability in Gaza hangs in the balance as negotiations and internal conflicts unfold.