Hamas has quietly reestablished its control over the Gaza Strip despite suffering heavy losses during the war, according to testimony from Gaza residents, who say the terror group has rebuilt its command structure, resumed internal security operations, and continues to rule through fear while keeping its operatives largely out of public view.

According to accounts published by N12, Hamas used the ceasefire to restore command-and-control centers, reactivate its security apparatus, and resume arresting and interrogating residents suspected of opposing the group. Witnesses say Hamas continues to crack down on dissent and quickly suppresses any attempts at public protest.

One Gaza resident said Hamas has no intention of giving up either its power or its weapons. “Hamas is Hamas,” the resident said. “It won’t change. It is reorganizing itself and putting its affairs back in order.”

Residents also described growing fears that the war could resume because Hamas refuses to disarm. Many said there is little optimism left in Gaza, with increasing numbers of people expressing a desire to leave the territory altogether.

According to multiple accounts, anti-Hamas demonstrations were swiftly crushed. Residents said protesters took to the streets demanding an end to Hamas rule, only to face threats and intimidation from the terror group. Many now say the dominant conversation in Gaza centers on emigration rather than political change.

One of the most noticeable changes since the war, residents said, is the disappearance of Hamas gunmen from public streets. Rather than patrolling openly, operatives now remain hidden out of fear of Israeli airstrikes and surveillance drones.

“They’re terrified of Israeli aircraft and intelligence drones,” one resident said. “They stay inside homes and tents, often disguised, and usually only move at night. You don’t see Hamas in the streets anymore.”

Despite their lower profile, residents stressed that Hamas continues to enforce its rule with violence whenever it chooses. According to witnesses, the group still arrests, assaults, and even executes those it accuses of collaborating with Israel. One resident claimed Hamas recently killed a young man after accusing him of cooperation.

Alongside the security situation, Gazans described worsening economic conditions, saying food prices have surged, humanitarian aid has declined, and transportation has become increasingly expensive, leaving many struggling to meet basic needs.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)