Hamas wages psychological campaign against local militias, clans in Gaza

Hamas messaging has portrayed those factions as “collaborating” with Israel.

By Vered Weiss, World Israel News

Hamas is conducting what analysts and local militia leaders describe as a broad psychological warfare campaign against local armed groups and clans in the Gaza Strip in an effort to prevent cooperation with Israel and maintain its control over the territory.

According to The Jerusalem Post, Hamas has used official and affiliated communication channels to circulate claims that members of anti-Hamas groups in areas including Khan Yunis are seeking to defect and reconnect with the organization.

Local militia leaders publicly rejected the allegations, describing them as disinformation intended to damage their credibility.

The campaign has focused in part on groups and clans including the al-Majdiya clan and organizations associated with Yasser Abu Shabab and Hossam al-Astal in the Rafah and Khan Yunis areas.

Hamas messaging has portrayed those factions as “collaborating” with Israel, according to the Post.

The organization’s tactics are aimed at weakening local opposition and discouraging civilians from cooperating with alternative leadership structures or armed groups emerging inside Gaza.

The messaging campaign has also targeted doctors and community figures involved in attempts to organize local administration or humanitarian assistance.

Alongside the media and messaging effort, Hamas has reportedly deployed specialized units, including the Saham unit, considered responsible for identifying and punishing Hamas opponents and rival clan members.

The campaign is intended to create deterrence and prevent additional families from participating in the administration of humanitarian aid.

Analysts said the effort reflects Hamas’ attempts to reinforce internal control amid growing challenges inside the Gaza Strip.

Dr. Michael Barak of the International Institute for Counter-Terrorism said Hamas’ use of psychological and cognitive operations is intended to restore the organization’s authority in the territory.