Hamas Executes Rivals Amid Ceasefire Tensions

Following a ceasefire agreement brokered by President Donald Trump, Hamas has intensified its crackdown on rival factions in Gaza, resulting in public executions of individuals accused of collaborating with Israel. This violent resurgence has raised significant concerns regarding the stability of the region and the implications for ongoing peace efforts.

Hamas publicly executes seven in Gaza, video causes massive global outrageNew York PostIsrael Hamas peace deal in Gaza: Some pro-Palestinian protestors accused by unionists and Home Secretary of having 'no interest in peace'The Independent(The) Atlantic

• October 7, 2023: Hamas launches a major attack on Israel, leading to heightened conflict.

The Independent

• October 13, 2025: A ceasefire is announced, with Israeli forces withdrawing from parts of Gaza.

The Independent

• October 15, 2025: Hamas publicly executes several individuals in Gaza City, claiming they were "collaborators" with Israel.

New York TimesNew York PostNew York PostThe Independent

• Hamas: The Palestinian militant group that has governed Gaza since 2007, accused of conducting public executions to reassert control.

New York Times

• President Donald Trump: U.S. President who brokered the ceasefire and has expressed a controversial stance on Hamas's actions, suggesting they are a necessary measure against crime.

(The) Atlantic

• Palestinian Authority (PA): Led by President Mahmoud Abbas, the PA condemned the executions as "heinous crimes."

Times of Israel

Reports indicate that Hamas has executed at least 33 individuals since the ceasefire began, often in public settings. Videos circulated on social media show masked gunmen executing blindfolded men in front of crowds. These actions have been framed by Hamas as necessary to restore order and eliminate threats from rival factions, particularly the Doghmoush clan, which has been accused of collaborating with Israel.

Hamas publicly executes seven in Gaza, video causes massive global outrage

The Palestinian Authority condemned the executions, stating they reflect Hamas's reliance on violence and terror. The Independent Commission for Human Rights also criticized the killings, calling them extrajudicial and demanding accountability. In contrast, President Trump downplayed the severity of the situation, stating, “That didn’t bother me much, to be honest with you. That’s okay. A couple of very bad gangs,” suggesting that Hamas's actions were akin to crime-fighting.

Times of Israel(The) AtlanticThe IndependentNew York PostHamas publicly executes seven in Gaza, video causes massive global outrage

Critics of Hamas, including various human rights organizations, have expressed outrage over the executions, arguing that they undermine any claims of governance based on law and order. Additionally, pro-Palestinian groups in the U.S. have faced scrutiny for their silence on these events, raising questions about their commitment to human rights.

Times of Israel

While Hamas claims the executions are part of a necessary crackdown on crime, human rights organizations and the PA argue that these actions constitute a violation of fundamental rights. The exact number of casualties and the identities of those executed remain disputed, with reports varying on the specifics of the incidents.

Times of Israel

The ongoing violence poses a significant challenge to the fragile peace established by the ceasefire. President Trump has warned that if Hamas does not disarm, the U.S. may take further action, indicating potential military involvement. The situation remains fluid, with local militias and rival factions preparing for possible confrontations with Hamas.

New York Post

• “They did take out a couple of gangs that were very bad… and they killed a number of gang members,” — President Donald Trump

Times of Israel

• “The wave of extrajudicial executions and shootings in the legs that occurred after the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip cannot be justified under any circumstances,” — Independent Commission for Human Rights

Times of Israel

This situation continues to evolve, with significant implications for both Gaza's internal stability and broader regional peace efforts.

New York Times