Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has confirmed Israel’s arming of Gaza clans opposing Hamas, following reports in Israeli media citing defense sources. This action has drawn sharp criticism from several Israeli politicians who allege it jeopardizes national security.
In a short video posted online, Netanyahu defended the decision, stating it saves Israeli soldiers’ lives and that publicizing it benefits Hamas. The reports center on the arming of a clan led by Yasser Abu Shabab in southern Gaza.
While presented as an anti-Hamas force aiming to protect aid convoys, this group, described variously as a militia or criminal gang, has also been accused of looting. The revelation has the potential to escalate into a major political scandal.
Opposition politician Avigdor Lieberman, head of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, publicly accused Netanyahu of unilaterally approving the weapons transfer, a claim subsequently confirmed by defense sources. Lieberman stated the government armed “criminals and felons identified with the Islamic State group” without cabinet approval.
Sources confirmed the provision of Kalashnikovs, including some seized from Hamas, to the Abu Shabab clan operating in the Rafah area under Israeli military control. However, Abu Shabab himself denied receiving Israeli weapons, attributing his group’s armaments to popular support.
Reports suggest Hamas’ armed wing has retaliated against the clan, with assassinations reported in an Arabic newspaper. Netanyahu’s office maintains that the actions are part of a broader strategy to defeat Hamas, aligned with security establishment recommendations.
Strong condemnation came from Yair Golan, leader of the Knesset Democrats, who on X, described Netanyahu’s actions as a threat to national security, accusing him of creating a “ticking time bomb” in Gaza, instead of focusing on hostage release and citizen security.
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