Netanyahu Confirms Israel's Armed Support for Anti-Hamas Clans in Gaza

As Israel reinforces clans opposed to Hamas in Gaza, Netanyahu faces mounting criticism from political opponents and humanitarian concerns.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly acknowledged that Israel is supplying arms to clans in Gaza that are reportedly opposed to Hamas. This announcement follows earlier Israeli media reports that claimed Netanyahu had greenlit the transfer of weapons to a specific group in southern Gaza. Critics, including several Israeli politicians, argue that this strategy could jeopardize Israeli security.

In a brief video he posted on social media, Netanyahu defended the move, stating, "What’s wrong with this? It only saves the lives of Israeli soldiers," while asserting that publicizing the initiative only aids Hamas. The group in question is reportedly led by Yasser Abu Shabab, who claims to be part of an opposition force to Hamas aimed at safeguarding aid trucks entering Gaza. However, critics argue that instead of protection, this group may be engaging in looting.

The United Nations has raised alarms about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where a significant portion of the population is facing famine due to the lack of sufficient aid. Although Netanyahu appears to downplay the potential fallout from this revelation, it could escalate into a major political scandal.

Opposition lawmaker Avigdor Lieberman, head of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, has alleged that Netanyahu approved the transfer of weapons without consulting the cabinet, labeling the recipients as "criminals and felons" linked to the Islamic State group. Israeli defense sources confirmed that the Abu Shabab clan had received Kalashnikov rifles, including some confiscated from Hamas.

However, Yasser Abu Shabab refuted these claims on social media, asserting that their weapons were outdated and sourced from their own community. Meanwhile, tensions continue to rise, with reports indicating that Hamas has begun targeted actions against members of Abu Shabab’s group.

Netanyahu's office reaffirmed that Israel is dedicated to combatting Hamas using various strategies advised by security leaders. Nonetheless, prominent figures like Yair Golan, leader of the Democrats in the Knesset, have criticized Netanyahu for allegedly compromising Israel’s national security interests. Golan remarked that instead of securing a deal for hostages and ensuring the safety of Israeli citizens, Netanyahu is creating another "ticking time-bomb" situation in Gaza.