Gaza City: Hamas is strengthening its control over Gaza’s civil administration and security structures, raising fresh doubts about the prospects for a United States backed peace initiative aimed at ending the war and rebuilding the devastated enclave.
Officials and regional observers say the group has moved to appoint loyalists to senior positions in key ministries including interior, health and the economy. It has also maintained salary payments to civil servants and fighters while continuing to collect taxes and generate revenue inside the territory.
Israeli security assessments indicate these steps are intended to preserve Hamas’ long term influence, even as the group has suggested the measures are temporary and necessary to maintain order.
The developments come as President Donald Trump pushes a peace framework that calls for Hamas to disarm, Israel to withdraw its forces, and Gaza to be governed by a technocratic administration supported by international partners. Hamas’ consolidation of authority suggests it is preparing to remain a dominant force rather than step aside.
Israel has repeatedly insisted that Hamas cannot play any role in Gaza’s future governance, citing security concerns and past attacks. The disagreement remains one of the central obstacles to implementing any post war political arrangement.
At the center of the US proposal is a newly formed international body known as the Board of Peace, which is expected to oversee governance transition, coordinate humanitarian relief and support reconstruction. The initiative aims to mobilize billions of dollars for rebuilding homes, hospitals and infrastructure destroyed during the conflict.
However, major questions remain unresolved. Disarming Hamas remains a key sticking point, and commitments to a multinational stabilization force are limited. Some international partners have also expressed caution, concerned about security risks and the structure of the proposed administration.
Although a ceasefire reached in October reduced large scale fighting, violations and sporadic violence continue to threaten stability. Transitional governance mechanisms have struggled to function effectively, and aid delivery remains inconsistent in several areas.
Reconstruction needs are expected to run into tens of billions of dollars, and analysts warn that rebuilding will be difficult without a clear governing authority accepted by both local actors and the international community.
Diplomatic efforts are continuing, but the growing gap between realities on the ground in Gaza and the political roadmap proposed by international mediators is emerging as the biggest challenge to achieving lasting peace.