Publication

This report discusses the destabilizing role of powerful clans and families six months after Hamas seized control of the Gaza Strip in June 2007. The paper outlines changes in the role and importance of kinship networks since the installation of the Palestinian Authority, identifies different functions of kinship networks and looks at Hamas' policy toward the clans. The author argues that Hamas has consolidated its rule and the collapse of the private sector, which was caused by the siege, has increased dependence on them.