Hamas executes six Palestinians, injures 13 over looting as desperation deepens in Gaza
Doha — Hamas announced on Friday that it had executed six Palestinians and shot 13 others in the legs for alleged looting, as dire conditions continue under Israel’s full blockade of the Gaza Strip, now entering its third month.
According to CNN journalists in Gaza City, armed gangs have increasingly taken to the streets in search of dwindling food supplies, challenging Hamas’ authority. Hamas claims some of the alleged looters are collaborating with Israel.
“A warning has been issued — those who ignore it bear full responsibility,” Hamas said.
Despite being severely weakened after 18 months of war, the executions underscore Hamas’ continued grip over the territory.
With food stocks nearly exhausted, desperation is growing. On Wednesday night, thousands of Gazans stormed a UN facility and several warehouses in Gaza City, scavenging for flour and canned goods, eyewitnesses said.
On Saturday, the Hamas-run Ministry of Interior accused “a group of outlaws and collaborators with the occupation” of stoking unrest and targeting public and private property.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza has rapidly deteriorated. Famine looms over the enclave’s 2.1 million people, following Israel’s decision on March 2 to seal off all aid, including food and medicine.
Dr. Ahmad Al-Farra, head of pediatrics at Nasser Medical Complex, warned that “a looming health catastrophe is threatening the lives of hundreds of thousands.”
He said the risk of widespread deaths from malnutrition is imminent if aid is not restored. On Saturday, two-month-old Janan Saleh Al-Sakkafi died from malnutrition at Al-Rantisi Hospital, according to Gaza’s Ministry of Health.
The U.S. State Department said an announcement on new humanitarian access to Gaza could come “in the coming days,” ensuring that aid reaches Palestinians without falling into the hands of Hamas or Islamic Jihad.
“Safeguards are finally in place. Israel remains secure, Hamas empty-handed, and Gazans with access to critical aid,” a State Department spokesperson said, describing the plan as a product of “creative thinking.” Further details were not disclosed, but a private foundation is expected to oversee the mechanism.
Hamas has ruled Gaza since 2007 and has previously carried out dozens of executions, including of individuals accused of collaborating with Israel.
Meanwhile, the Israeli military continues its offensive. IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir said Sunday that “tens of thousands” of reservist call-up orders would be issued this week to intensify operations in the enclave.
