As Israel celebrated the safe return of hostages, Hamas’s crackdown in Gaza sparks renewed concern. Videos surfaced showing masked militants executing Palestinians accused of collaborating with Israel. The violent displays erupted just as 20 Israeli captives returned home under President Donald Trump’s peace plan — a deal that requires Hamas to disarm and relinquish control over Gaza.
The terror group’s so-called Arrow Unit, known for brutalizing civilians, carried out the killings. Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD) analyst Joe Truzman told the Washington Free Beacon, “With the ceasefire in effect, Hamas is severely weakened. It must assert power by targeting its rivals and those who have allegedly gone against the so-called ‘resistance.’” Hamas reportedly executed at least 25 members of the Doghmush clan, using ambulances to infiltrate their compound.
Videos show gunmen firing automatic weapons in Gaza City’s Al-Sabra neighborhood. Hamas’s “deterrent force” claimed responsibility for sweeping “security operations” against alleged collaborators. Truzman added, “These units should be considered as an extension of Hamas… a deliberate attempt to intimidate.”
Analysts say the Hamas crackdown signals the group’s intent to retain control despite international pressure to comply with the Trump peace plan. Ahmad Sharawi of FDD wrote, “Hamas is now settling scores in Gaza… this moment reveals that Hamas still intends to keep its weapons.”
