Deadly Clashes Ignite Between Hamas and Palestinian Family Group in the Gaza Strip

Khan Younis, located in southern Gaza saw some of the most intense domestic fighting since hostilities commenced, between Hamas security forces against armed members from the al-Mujaida clan - a major clans in southern Gaza.

As stated by Hamas, its security personnel conducted a raid in the area to arrest individuals accused of working with Israeli authorities.

Conversely, resident testimonies described an armed assault by approximately fifty armed individuals using multiple vehicles, armed with assault rifles and a rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) launcher, who stormed the al-Mujaida quarter and fatally shot five individuals from the clan.

Family members with weapons rapidly responded, triggering extended confrontations with heavy exchanges of fire.

Information shared via online platforms – hard to authenticate – claim that at least 11 Hamas personnel were eliminated, with some of their bodies supposedly pulled along the streets.

Footage widely shared on the internet, without independent verification, appear to show several injured bodies in military fatigues, featuring a audio commentary stating they belonged to Hamas's "military division".

Separate video showed automatic weapon fire and a rocket-propelled grenade striking a apartment block in the area.

Tribal mediators subsequently stepped in to negotiate among the two sides, resulting in an exchange of bodies designed to limit the escalation.

While the exact motives remain unclear, the incident has intensified apprehension among Palestinians.

Many fear that proliferation of arms, tensions between major families and Hamas's control over governance could escalate into circumstances similar to internal conflict in a territory already experiencing population movement, damage, and anxiety of further lawlessness.

Experts indicate that the degree of hostility which Hamas faces from its numerous adversaries – some of whom have been marginalized during its lengthy governance – is considered a key factor motivating the organization to reject the truce agreement.

Moreover, there is fear of bloody revenge, of facing execution in the streets, since the plan demands Hamas to give up all arms.

Indications indicate that the commander of Hamas's military wing in Gaza has expressed disagreement regarding the initiative, which was unveiled recently.

The ceasefire plan includes a cut-off point for Hamas to agree or face significant repercussions.