Full Breakdown
Hamas Reasserts Control in Gaza Amid Stalled Peace Efforts
11/14/2025, 8:19:16 PM
Current Governance Dynamics in Gaza
In the aftermath of the October 2023 conflict, Hamas is reasserting its control over Gaza, with reports indicating that nearly all of the territory's 2 million residents live in areas governed by the group. Following the ceasefire established under U.S. President Donald Trump's plan, which aimed to facilitate a transitional authority and disarm Hamas, the reality on the ground appears increasingly fragmented. Israeli forces currently occupy over half of Gaza, complicating the prospects for a unified governance structure.
Economic Control and Local Governance
Hamas has begun regulating local markets, including setting prices for essential goods like chicken and imposing fees on imported items such as fuel and cigarettes. While Ismail Al-Thawabta, head of Hamas' media office, denies that the group is imposing taxes, he acknowledges efforts to stabilize the economy and manage prices amid dire conditions. Gazans report fluctuating prices and a lack of goods, with merchants expressing frustration over the economic situation. Mohammed Khalifa, a local shopper, described the market as resembling "a stock exchange" due to constant price changes.
International Response and Future Governance
The U.S. State Department has reiterated that Hamas "cannot and will not govern" Gaza, emphasizing the need for a new governing body once the United Nations approves Trump's plan. However, the Palestinian Authority (PA) is pushing for a role in this new government, a move that Israel opposes. Fatah and Hamas remain at odds over the governance structure, with Fatah spokesperson Munther al-Hayek asserting that Hamas's actions indicate a desire to maintain its rule.
Criticism of Hamas's Governance
Critics argue that Hamas is exploiting the delays in implementing Trump's peace plan to solidify its authority. Ghaith al-Omari from the Washington Institute noted that the longer the international community waits, the more entrenched Hamas becomes. Activist Mustafa Ibrahim expressed concern that Hamas's continued governance could persist until a viable alternative is established.
Conflicting Reports and Future Implications
The potential for a de facto partition of Gaza looms, with sources indicating that the territory may remain divided between Hamas-controlled and Israeli-occupied areas. This division raises concerns about the humanitarian situation for Gazans, who are largely dependent on aid. Jordan's Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi and Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin have both rejected the idea of territorial fragmentation, emphasizing the need for Palestinian sovereignty and a unified approach to governance.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The longer the international community waits, the more entrenched Hamas becomes.” — Ghaith al-Omari, Senior Fellow, Washington Institute
- “This is why Hamas cannot and will not govern in Gaza” — U.S. State Department Spokesperson
- “give a clear indication that Hamas wants to continue to govern” — Munther al-Hayek, Fatah Spokesperson
As negotiations continue to stall, the future of Gaza remains uncertain, with the possibility of prolonged division and humanitarian challenges looming large.
