While the world is focused on the war in Lebanon and its dangers, the situation in Gaza has been largely overlooked.
Despite ongoing suffering, it has received little attention, especially with winter rains approaching, which are adding to the hardships faced by its residents.
Israeli forces are continuing their military operations in Gaza, although they have eased somewhat.
On Tuesday, the Palestinian Ministry of Health reported that Israeli airstrikes led to four massacres in the last 24 hours, killing 23 people and injuring 101.
The latest attack targeted displaced people in the al-Fattah neighborhood, resulting in numerous casualties.
As the conflict enters its 361st day, the toll in Gaza has reached 41,638 dead and 96,460 injured since October 7, worsening the humanitarian crisis.
The Israeli army claims to have destroyed 90% of Hamas’s military capabilities, including half of its tunnels and assassinating several of its leaders.
However, it admitted that Hamas has regained control and is suppressing dissent violently.
Israeli officials allege that Hamas has been monopolizing humanitarian aid entering Gaza, taking a portion for its leaders and selling the rest at high prices.
As a result, the cost of a single cigarette has soared to 20 shekels (about $6), and Hamas still controls smuggling operations for goods through its members in the West Bank.
Goods entering Gaza through private wholesalers face heavy taxes from Hamas. The Israeli army claims that Hamas has set up a trade system with the West Bank and Türkiye, allowing it to pay salaries to its members.
This system enables traders in Gaza to buy goods from the West Bank, with payments processed through Hamas. Money sent from Türkiye is used to pay wholesalers in Hebron or Nablus.
Hamas also posts on Telegram, inviting healthcare workers to Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis to collect their salaries, as well as teachers to specific schools for payment.
Hamas leaders maintain command centers in various neighborhoods, which are known to the public.
Those who go to these centers seeking help may face serious consequences, including detention for questioning, punishment, or even death for minor offenses like theft.
Israeli generals say the failure to recruit local leaders for Gaza is largely due to fear of Hamas’s violent crackdown.
With the Palestinian Authority refusing to take on any responsibilities in the enclave, Hamas remains the only group managing affairs.
In response, Hamas is working to reopen markets, shops, and restaurants selling traditional sweets like knafeh and baklava across Gaza. They are also cleaning streets, removing debris, and improving drainage systems.
In light of the situation, the Israeli army is preparing to appoint a “temporary military governor” to oversee Gaza.
It recognizes that military rule will involve daily interactions with the local population and Hamas operatives, leading to a prolonged occupation and resistance.
