The IDF’s year-long relentless targeting of Hamas in the Gaza Strip has weakened the militant group’s military capabilities, but surprisingly, Hamas’s governance remains functional. Despite budget cuts and reduced staff, government offices continue to provide essential services to civilians.
While municipal workers clear rubble and maintain order in cities like Gaza City, Hamas enforces law and order with special units like “The Arrow.” However, their profiteering tactics, like high taxes on merchants and black market sales of scarce goods, have led to skyrocketing prices for essential items, affecting the civilian population.
An attempted Israeli plan to create civilian opposition to Hamas failed, highlighting the group’s continued dominance. With the delicate balance of power between Hamas and the Palestinian Authority, the future of governance in Gaza remains uncertain amid concerns about ISIS and regional threats.
As Israel navigates the aftermath of targeting Hamas leadership, the decision on Hamas’s civilian wing’s future will hold significant implications for the region’s stability.