US President Donald Trump has hinted that the Palestinian group "Hamas" has received approval to conduct temporary internal security operations in the Gaza Strip, "Reuters" reported, BTA reports.
"Hamas", which under Trump's proposal to end the war must disarm and end its rule in Gaza, has deployed internal security forces in parts of the territory since the ceasefire came into effect on Friday. The organization said its actions were aimed at stopping lawlessness and looting and preventing a security vacuum.
Asked by reporters about reports that "Hamas" had established itself as a de facto police force and was shooting at rivals, Trump said:
"They want to stop the problems and they've been open about it, and we've given them approval for a period of time."
He added that the situation in Gaza remained volatile:
"There are about 2 million people returning to destroyed buildings and a lot of bad things could happen. We want everything to be safe. I think it's going to be fine, but who knows for sure."
Much of the Gaza Strip has been devastated by the war that began after "Hamas" attacks against Israel on October 7, 2023.
According to local sources, Hamas security forces have been involved in clashes with members of a local clan in Gaza City over the past two days.
The group's Interior Ministry issued a statement on Sunday offering amnesty to individuals who joined illegal gangs accused of stealing humanitarian aid and looting - provided they did not participate in violent acts.