Netanyahu's Risky Gamble Arming Gaza Clans Against Hamas – What Could Go Wrong?

Netanyahu Defends Arming Palestinian Clans Accused of Ties with Jihadist Groups

The Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has ignited controversy by openly admitting to arming Palestinian clans in Gaza. This decision, he claims, is aimed at countering Hamas, but it has sparked significant backlash due to allegations that these clans have ties to jihadist groups and have been involved in looting humanitarian aid.

The revelation follows reports in Israeli media quoting defense sources who stated that Netanyahu authorized providing weapons to a clan reportedly led by Yasser Abu Shabab, a Rafah resident from a Bedouin family known for criminal activities. Abu Shabab's group, which calls itself the "Anti-Terror Service," allegedly received Kalashnikov assault rifles, including weapons seized from Hamas.

In a short video posted on social media, Netanyahu defended the move, stating: "On the advice of security officials, we activated clans in Gaza that oppose Hamas. What’s wrong with that? It only saves the lives of Israeli soldiers, and publicising this only benefits Hamas."

Here's a breakdown of the key aspects of this controversial decision:

• Authorization: Netanyahu admitted to authorizing the arming of clans in Gaza.
• Rationale: He argues it's a strategic move to weaken Hamas and protect Israeli soldiers.
• Criticism: Opposition parties and security experts have strongly condemned the initiative.

Opposition and Criticism Mount

The move has drawn strong criticism from opposition parties within Israel. Yair Golan, leader of the Democrats in the Knesset, voiced his concerns on social media, stating: "Netanyahu is a threat to Israel’s national security. Instead of bringing about a deal … bringing the hostages home and providing security for Israeli citizens, he is creating a new ticking timebomb in Gaza."

Former defense minister Avigdor Lieberman went even further, alleging that Abu Shabab's group is affiliated with Islamic State. "The Israeli government is giving weapons to a group of criminals and felons, identified with Islamic State, at the direction of the prime minister," Lieberman told Kan Bet public radio. While the basis for Lieberman's allegation remains unclear, Abu Shabab's group has previously been accused of involvement in smuggling operations linked to Egyptian jihadi groups.

Humanitarian Crisis Worsens Amidst Conflict

The situation in Gaza remains dire, with Palestinians marking Eid al-Adha amidst destroyed homes and dwindling food supplies. Food distribution points run by the US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation have faced disruptions following deadly shootings by Israeli soldiers, which resulted in the deaths of 27 Palestinians and injuries to hundreds as they waited for food. The UN reports that more than 2,700 children in Gaza are suffering from acute malnutrition.

Accusations of Collusion and Aid Theft

Adding fuel to the fire, Jonathan Whittall, head of the United Nations office for the coordination of humanitarian affairs in occupied Palestinian territories, stated that the real theft of aid has been carried out by criminal gangs, under the watch of Israeli forces. He confirmed that he was "referring to gangs such as Abu Shabab."

Family Disownment and Denial of Allegations

Abu Shabab's involvement with Israeli troops has been confirmed through videos circulating on social media. His family has issued a statement disowning him, accusing him of collaborating with Israeli forces and stating that his blood is forfeit. Abu Shabab has denied allegations of looting, claiming he was only taking goods to feed his family.

Political Fallout Within Israel

Despite ongoing protests demanding a ceasefire deal and the release of Israeli hostages, Netanyahu's coalition remains relatively solid, supported by far-right parties. However, this unity may be tested as the ultra-Orthodox Shas party announced its support for dissolving the Knesset due to a lack of progress on a law exempting ultra-Orthodox citizens from military draft.

The decision to arm Palestinian clans in Gaza is a complex and highly controversial one, fraught with potential risks and unintended consequences. Whether it will ultimately prove to be a strategic success or a dangerous miscalculation remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly adds another layer of complexity to the already volatile situation in the region.

Tags: Israel, Netanyahu, Gaza clans, Hamas, arming clans, Yasser Abu Shabab, Anti-Terror Service, Rafah, Israeli PM, Gaza aid

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/jun/06/netanyahu-defends-arming-palestinian-clans-accused-of-ties-with-jihadist-groups