In the aftermath of the Gaza War, Hamas is struggling to regain control over the region despite significant losses. The conflict left their military in disarray, leadership depleted, and infrastructure devastated. Despite these setbacks, Hamas is reclaiming control over security, taxation, and government functions, questioning its willingness to disarm as required by a new peace plan.

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Activist Mohammed Diab notes that Hamas has regained control in over 90% of its areas, reinstating police presence and reestablishing administrative control. People in Gaza now rely on Hamas for essential services, highlighting its regained dominance.

However, market vendors report aggressive tax enforcement by Hamas, making survival difficult under economic pressures. Traders, essential for importing goods post-ceasefire, face heavy taxation. Some report harsh measures, including threats and kidnappings, for non-compliance with tax demands.

Hamas spokesman Hazem Qassem describes the region as in a state of emergency, justifying "exceptional measures" to maintain order. He separates these actions from Hamas's broader goals, attributing them to government necessity rather than organizational policy.

Despite such control, Gaza's leadership is challenged by Israel. The Israeli Defense Forces report ongoing skirmishes, emphasizing the need for Hamas's disarmament to ensure peace. Conversely, Hamas highlights continued Israeli attacks, complicating the ceasefire's stability.

Trump's peace plan, integral to Gaza's restructuring, depends on Hamas disarming. Negotiators face complications in how this disarmament would be executed, given the group's deeply ingrained and well-armed presence.

Internally, Hamas faces political tensions. Reports of internal power struggles and continued influence in government sectors suggest resistance to relinquishing control. Public actions, such as medical case transfers through Rafah Crossing, indicate Hamas's ongoing administrative involvement.

The situation in Gaza remains critical, with the implementation of Trump’s plan hinging on tangible disarmament actions. The international community watches closely as this complex power dynamic continues to evolve.

Key Takeaways

• Hamas regains control amidst post-war chaos.

• Tax enforcement challenges local traders.

• Disarmament crucial for peace plan success.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 18 Feb 2026

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Disgusting and shameful! Hamas started this war resulting in the death of 100k of their constituents.

Sounds to me like Palestinians are as brainwashed and racist as the Israelis.

Two state solution, ban Hamas, bring back the PA.

This situation is not about foreign political personalities. It is about self-determination - about what the people of Gaza themselves want and how they envision their future.

While multiple actors are involved, the central issue remains the political rights and agency of Palestinians in Gaza. Any durable resolution must prioritise the expressed will of the population rather than externally imposed agendas.

Serious allegations have been raised by human rights organisations regarding violations of international humanitarian law during the conflict and in its aftermath, including claims of excessive use of force and civilian casualties during periods meant to be governed by ceasefire arrangements. These allegations warrant independent investigation and accountability under international law.

Israel has emphasised disarmament as a prerequisite for long-term stability, while Hamas and others argue that continued military operations undermine the conditions necessary for sustainable peace. The fragile nature of ceasefire arrangements reflects the depth of mistrust on all sides.

Ultimately, lasting peace will depend not solely on disarmament clauses or externally drafted proposals, but on ending prolonged insecurity, addressing occupation-related grievances, ensuring accountability for violations of international law, and enabling genuine self-determination for the people of Gaza.

Those guys are suicidal....when will they learn that they will never, ever, ever defeat the IDF. Give it up. Take the money, take care of your families, breed, breed and let the population take over. More Runs never learn.