Gaza City – the Doghmush clan, a large, heavily armed family with roots in Türkiye and connections to multiple Palestinian factions, is emerging as a important challenger to Hamas‘ authority in Gaza, amidst escalating internal conflict and mutual accusations of collaboration with Israel.
The origins and allegiances of the Doghmush are disputed among Gazan residents. While some claim past Israeli support, other sources deny any such connection.Nizar Doghmush,the clan’s leader in Gaza,told the Los Angeles Times he refused an Israeli military proposal to lead a “humanitarian zone,” reporting subsequent bombings in his neighborhood.
Comprised of hundreds of members spread across Gaza,the Doghmush maintain ties with Fatah and even Hamas. traditionally, the clan views bearing arms as essential for defending their land, according to Asharq Al-awsat.
A key figure, Mumtaz Doghmush, founded Jaysh al-islam (Army of Islam), a group that once expressed support for the Islamic State. Jaysh al-Islam participated in the 2006 kidnapping of israeli soldier Gilad Shalit, alongside Hamas. Shalit was later released in a prisoner exchange. Since then, the Doghmush have consolidated power, controlling smuggling routes and security systems in Gaza, operating as a parallel force to Hamas. Mumtaz Doghmush’s current whereabouts are unknown, but his influence remains strong, Palestinian officials say.
the rivalry between Hamas and the Doghmush is marked by accusations from both sides. Hamas alleges the clan collaborates with israel and steals weapons and aid during conflicts. The Doghmush, in turn, accuse Hamas of attempting to eliminate any group that threatens its dominance.
Reports indicate Israel has previously supported rival Hamas militias, such as the Popular Forces led by Yasser Abu Shabab, contributing to internal instability, according to Al Jazeera. Following the partial withdrawal of Israeli troops and the retaking of areas by Palestinian groups, Hamas has intensified its control through public executions of alleged traitors and members of opposing clans, as documented by the BBC. Videos show Hamas fighters executing unarmed men in Gaza City intersections, proclaiming support for the al-Qassam Brigades, the group’s armed wing.
