Israel's Controversial Arms Support to Clans Opposed to Hamas

Concerns mount in Israel as Netanyahu's decision to arm factions in Gaza is critiqued by opposition voices, sparking fears of escalating conflict and humanitarian repercussions.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has confirmed that Israel is providing arms to certain clans in Gaza, claiming that these groups oppose Hamas. This revelation follows reports from Israeli media which cited defense sources indicating that Netanyahu had specifically authorized the transfer of weapons to a clan led by Yasser Abu Shabab in southern Gaza.

Opponents of Netanyahu's decision have raised alarms regarding national security. "What’s wrong with this?" Netanyahu stated in a video shared on social media, arguing that the initiative aims to protect Israeli soldiers. He further contended that exposing these efforts could potentially aid Hamas, a statement that has invited skepticism and critique.

The clan, which some describe as either a militia or a criminal organization, has positioned itself as a counterforce to Hamas, pledging to safeguard aid trucks entering Gaza. However, critics accuse them of looting rather than protecting these deliveries. The looming humanitarian crisis in Gaza is precarious, with the UN warning that a significant portion of the population faces famine due to a lack of consistent aid.

The situation has escalated into a potential political scandal, as Israeli defense sources have corroborated claims made by opposition Chief Avigdor Lieberman. He asserted that Netanyahu’s decision lacked formal cabinet approval and accused the government of arming "criminals" linked to extremist groups such as ISIS. Reports indicate that Kalashnikov rifles, some acquired from Hamas, are part of the weaponry supplied to the Abu Shabab clan.

In response, Yasser Abu Shabab disputed the claims of receiving weapons from Israel, insisting that his faction’s arms were outdated and obtained through local support. Tensions are building within the region, with Hamas reportedly beginning targeted actions against the clan’s members, further complicating the already dire situation.

Netanyahu's administration has stated its commitment to countering Hamas through diversified strategies based on security establishment guidance. However, significant figures, such as Yair Golan, leader of the Democrats in the Knesset, have launched strong critiques. Golan labeled Netanyahu a threat to national security, asserting that rather than focusing on diplomatic solutions or securing hostages, the prime minister is instead fostering instability in Gaza. The conflict continues to deepen, as humanitarian leaders describe the conditions in Gaza as "worse than hell on earth."