Palestinian clans in Gaza that have been fighting Hamas’ iron grip since the beginning of the Israeli Hamas war are faced with a dilemma. If Hamas doesn’t lay down their weapons the clans might suffer retaliation. Last week Hamas sent about 50 fighters to Khan Younis to arrest “Israeli collaborators.” They killed 5 members of the al-Mujaida clan. The resulting firefight saw 11 Hamas fighters killed. Local elders brokered a peace, but tensions remain (BBC).
Israel has been supplying arms to groups in Gaza opposed to Hamas rule. The Western press has characterized this as incitement rather than helping the oppressed fight against theocratic, authoritarian rule (BBC).
Now a ceasefire is in place, and a long awaited (although lopsided as usual) prisoner swap may happen. Will Hamas move to the next phase of the plan and disarm? Since taking over Gaza in a battle with the Palestinian Authority in 2007 Hamas has cemented it’s rule and ruthlessly put down those who oppose them. It would be shameful for people opposed to Hamas to be left with no support or protection should the terrorists renege.