Hamas has been shooting Palestinians to quell unrest in the Gaza Strip. Palestinian sources said Hamas has been killing Palestinians suspected of sparking protests amid the war with Israel. They said more than 50 people have been killed, most of them accused of spying for Israel.

“Everybody is terrified to talk about this because they still control the streets,” a source said.

The sources said Hamas troops have also opened fire on those who demanded food rations. On July 28, two people were killed and more than 20 injured when Hamas gunmen battled those waiting on line for food in the northern town of Beit Hanoun.

On July 26, at least five protesters were shot dead by Hamas gunmen in Gaza City. The sources said some 40 people gathered outside Shifa Hospital to demand medical services.

The sources said Hamas was concerned that the rival Fatah movement as well as neighboring Egypt were fomenting unrest amid the war with Israel.

They said Hamas has retained its 20,000-member security force to prevent a coup.

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