Hamas is reasserting control in Gaza despite its heavy losses fighting Israel

When a US-imposed ceasefire halted the Gaza War last October, Hamas’s war for survival against Israel switched into a battle for control at home.

The war had left the group’s disciplined military units shattered into guerrilla forces, and most of its leaders killed; Gaza’s buildings and infrastructure were largely destroyed, its population displaced, and its economic life in ruins. More than 72,000 Gazans were killed by Israeli attacks during the conflict, the Hamas-run health ministry says.

Four months on, Gazans say Hamas is again extending its control over security, tax revenue, and government services, raising questions about its long-term strategy, and whether it is prepared to give up its weapons and authority, as now required under the second stage of Donald Trump’s peace plan.

“Hamas regained control of more than 90% of the areas where it is present,” said Mohammed Diab, an activist in Gaza.

Read more: BBC News