Hamas security officer says group has lost control over most of Gaza
A security official of the Hamas government in Gaza has revealed that the group has lost control over most of the territory, including its border crossings, to rival groups, according to a new report.
The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said that Hamas no longer has a presence at the border crossings with Israel and Egypt and that armed factions affiliated with the Muslim Brotherhood have taken over.
Fears of civil war have been rampant for months in Gaza, as Hamas' rivals, backed by Egypt and Israel, have increased pressure on the group.
Reactions
The development is likely to further strain the already fragile Palestinian unity, with parties on both sides of the divide accusing each other of complicity in the deteriorating situation.
The United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, Tor Wennesland, spoke of grave concerns about the potential for renewed violence.
" Gaza cannot withstand a new war; civilians, infrastructure, the entire economy would be devastated ", Wennesland said.
Background
Egypt and Israel have strengthened their cooperation in recent months, with joint military exercises and increased coordination along their borders.
A security source said that Egyptian intelligence and military officials met with Palestinian rivals of Hamas in Cairo to coordinate efforts to counter terrorism and smuggling activities in the Sinai.
