Hamas appears to be reasserting its control over most of Gaza after 15 months of conflict with Israel. Despite suffering significant losses, including the destruction of many tunnels and the death of its leaders, Hamas has managed to recruit new members and maintain a strong presence on the streets.
Videos posted by various media outlets show Hamas fighters in white pickup trucks driving through the streets, accompanied by armed men waving to crowds or sitting on vehicles. The group’s police force is also reemerging, with reports suggesting that they had been targeted by Israeli forces during the war.
NGOs and international organizations have complained about the lack of law and order in Gaza, which they attribute to the absence of Hamas police. Many groups prefer working with Hamas because of its perceived stability and reliability.
Palestinian media outlets, including Quds and Shehab, are portraying the emergence of Hamas as a victory, showcasing videos that depict the group’s fighters as “Palestinian factions” rather than just Hamas. These images often feature civilians celebrating alongside the gunmen, creating a narrative that suggests Hamas is in control.
Experts warn that this may be part of a propaganda campaign to promote Hamas’s image and create a sense of control over Gaza. The group has a history of using such tactics after previous conflicts, including its takeover of Gaza in 2007.
As Israel withdraws from the region, Hamas sees an opportunity to reassert its dominance. It will likely use this moment to galvanize support among Palestinians, exploit the media, and showcase its ability to rebuild and govern the territory. With its strong control over local media, hospitals, and schools, Hamas is well-positioned to promote a narrative of victory and stability.
Source: https://www.jpost.com/arab-israeli-conflict/article-838225