Trump Declares End of Gaza Conflict While Enroute to Israel for Hostage Release Mission
At least 27 individuals lost their lives in fierce clashes in Gaza City, exacerbating tensions in the region. The violence erupted between Hamas security forces and gunmen from the Dughmush family, a well-known clan in Gaza.
Overview of the Clashes
The armed confrontation is considered one of the most severe since the recent end of significant Israeli military operations. Fighting intensified near the Jordanian hospital in southern Gaza City on Saturday, leading to a dire situation for local residents.
Fatalities and Injuries
- Eight Hamas security personnel were killed during the conflict.
- Nineteen members of the Dughmush family also lost their lives.
- Five additional Hamas fighters sustained injuries due to the clashes.
Background and Causes
The conflict ignited in the Tel al-Hawa neighborhood when a contingent of over 300 Hamas fighters attempted to approach a residential block occupied by Dughmush militants. Witnesses reported scenes of chaos, as many families fled their homes amid the gunfire. One resident noted, “This time people weren’t fleeing Israeli attacks; they were running from their own people.”
Historical Context
The relationship between the Dughmush clan and Hamas has been historically strained, with multiple previous confrontations. According to the Hamas-run Interior Ministry, the current operation aims to restore order, asserting that “any armed activity outside the framework of the resistance” will face a firm response.
Claims and Counterclaims
Both factions have exchanged accusations regarding the origins of the violence. Hamas alleges that armed members of the Dughmush family killed two of its fighters, prompting their military action. Conversely, a Dughmush source stated that Hamas forces targeted their refuge location, previously a hospital, intending to evict them to repurpose the building for their own use.
This internal strife highlights the ongoing complexities within Gaza, as communities navigate threats from various factions while dealing with the repercussions of previous external conflicts.
