Hamas Government's Management of the Security System in the Gaza Strip Following the Palestinian Political Division

Abstract

This study investigates the mechanisms through which the Hamas government established and maintained security control in the Gaza Strip after the 2007 Palestinian political split, despite its relatively recent governance experience and the significant challenges posed by the Israeli occupation. Initially, the study addresses the dimensions of the pre-split security breakdown in Gaza, followed by an analysis of the strategies employed by the government to address these issues. Key areas of focus include the restructuring of security agencies, efforts to reduce the militarization of familial groups, and countermeasures against extremist organizations. The findings indicate that the Hamas government effectively managed to stabilize the security situation due to a combination of factors: its preparedness in terms of human and institutional resources, its prompt and decisive actions, and its commitment to assuming full governance responsibilities after winning the 2006 elections. Nonetheless, the study highlights certain criticisms related to the overlap between the Hamas movement and the formal government structure. Specific concerns include the reliance on military personnel to reinforce security forces and the blending of official security operations with informal activities.