GAZA/ JERUSALEM, Feb 19 – Hamas is consolidating its control over Gaza by placing loyalists in key government positions, collecting taxes, and continuing salary payments, according to an Israeli military assessment and sources in the enclave. The developments raise doubts about U.S. President Donald Trump’s peace plan, which calls for Hamas to disarm in exchange for an Israeli military withdrawal.
The militant group has appointed five district governors linked to its armed al-Qassam Brigades and replaced senior officials in the economy and interior ministries, responsible for taxation and security. A new deputy health minister has also been seen touring hospitals, while at least 14 of Gaza’s 17 ministries and 13 municipalities are operating, compared with minimal functioning during the conflict. Hamas sources say these steps prevent administrative collapse.
Hamas has focused on public order and revenue generation, including fees on smuggled goods such as cigarettes, mobile phones, and batteries. Salaries for civil servants and fighters, averaging $500 per month, continue to be paid. Meanwhile, Ali Shaath’s U.S.-backed National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG) faces obstacles entering Gaza to assume responsibilities, with Hamas effectively maintaining day-to-day governance.
Israeli officials note Hamas has used the October ceasefire to reinforce its authority in areas vacated by Israeli forces. Observers warn that without Hamas disarmament, the technocratic committee will struggle to implement reforms. The inaugural meeting of Trump’s Board of Peace in Washington on Thursday is expected to review the committee’s work and announce international support for a stabilization force and new police training, highlighting the ongoing tension between diplomacy and Hamas’ entrenched control.
