Hamas continues to exercise significant influence in the Gaza Strip by managing security institutions and rejecting disarmament plans [1].
This persistent control complicates international efforts to establish a new governing framework in the territory. The group's refusal to relinquish weapons suggests a long-term strategy to remain the primary power broker in the region.
According to reports, Hamas still directs the Ministry of Interior, which continues to issue orders and schedule operations [1, 2]. This administrative hold allows the movement to maintain a grip on the daily functions of governance, and security enforcement within the enclave [2, 3].
Kenneth Katzman, a researcher, said that the movement adheres to the principle of resistance. He said that some leaders within the group reject the idea of surrendering their weapons and that the movement still possesses influence in the Gaza Strip [1].
This influence is further evidenced by the group's continued command over armed forces [1]. By maintaining its military structure and administrative apparatus, Hamas ensures that any transition of power must account for its existing security architecture [2, 3].
The movement's strategy relies on a combination of ideological commitment to resistance and the practical control of state institutions [1]. This dual approach prevents the complete dismantling of its power base despite external pressures [2].
“Hamas continues to exercise significant influence in the Gaza Strip by managing security institutions.”
The continued operational control of the Ministry of Interior and the refusal to disarm indicate that Hamas is not currently transitioning toward a purely political role. This suggests that any future stability or governance agreements in Gaza will likely require a resolution to the group's military status, as they remain integrated into the territory's security infrastructure.
