Clans and Order in Post-Conflict Gaza: Recommendations For UK Stakeholders

A. Executive summary

A.1. The collapse of Hamas in Gaza has raised critical questions about the nature

of political and social order post-violence.

A.2. Israeli officials proposed establishing a council of clan leaders to run Gaza’s

civilian affairs. Experts debunked this proposal, noting the clans’ diminished

influence among urbanised Palestinians, as well as the involvement of some clans

in illicit activities or their involvement with Islamic Jihad and even the Islamic State

in Sinai.

A.3. However, despite urbanisation, clans remain important for many Palestinians.

Moreover, lessons from other states in the region suggest that kinship structures

regain appeal in crises.

A.4. While some clans have histories of illicit activities, others have cooperated

with the Palestinian Authority and integrated into state institutions.

A.5. Most importantly, Gazan clans have gained influence post-Hamas. Some

have engaged in criminal activities, such as looting aid convoys. Others have

sought to curb such acts and introduce order in their localities.

A.6. Stakeholders, including the UK government and bodies involved in Gaza’s

reconstruction and stabilisation efforts, must consider clans’ interests to ensure

their support in the process.

A.7. British stakeholders have gained experience in working with tribes in Iraq and

should use their insights to bring stability to post-conflict Gaza.