Rebel governance during COVID-19: Describing and explaining armed groups' response to the pandemic in the Middle East

As COVID-19 spread worldwide, armed groups in control of territory were called to address the health emergency. However, our knowledge this regard is limited. Specifically, it remains poorly understood why different responded crisis differently. Recognizing lacuna, paper aims illuminate responses that throughout Middle East implemented order and explain pandemic as they did. After studying three examples, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, Houthis, Hamas, argues intensity conflict does not account satisfactorily for variations observed among groups. Conversely, ultimate goals, financial resources, governance experience contribute explaining patterns response.