In a rare and revealing interview published Sunday, Yasser Abu Shabab, commander of the “Popular Forces” militia in Gaza, claimed his primary mission is to protect Palestinian civilians and combat the threat posed by Hamas. Speaking with journalist Doron Kadosh, Abu Shabab shared details about his militia’s operations in Rafah’s eastern sector—an area under Israeli military control—and his group’s coordination with both Israel and the Palestinian Authority. He categorically denied any affiliation with ISIS or other extremist groups.
Our Presence Here Is Essential
Abu Shabab stated that hundreds of Gaza families have recently sought refuge with his militia. He and his fighters have helped civilians relocate into territory they control, which lies under the supervision of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). He stressed the urgent need for a “humanitarian corridor” to allow safe passage for civilians, a demand he says originates from his own militia.
“Our presence is essential to protecting families in areas overseen by the IDF,” he said. He called for international oversight to manage such a corridor, ensuring safe and orderly transit for Palestinians fleeing violence.
Blocking Terrorist Infiltration
Regarding cooperation with the Palestinian Authority, Abu Shabab confirmed that his militia collaborates with the Mukhabarat, the Palestinian intelligence agency, to conduct security screenings. These are aimed at preventing terrorists from entering areas under his control.
He emphasized that all coordination is aligned with the “national interest of the Palestinian people” and respects the legal authority of the Palestinian government. However, he denied receiving funding or operational support from the Authority, asserting independence in those areas.
Weapons from Civilians, Not Israel
Addressing accusations of collaborating with Israel, Abu Shabab insisted his only objective is to protect Palestinians from Hamas, not to align with Israeli interests. “We do not work with Israel. Our goal is to protect Palestinians from Hamas terrorism,” he said.
He also denied receiving weapons from Israel, explaining that their arms were acquired locally, mostly from civilians. Any coordination with Israeli forces, he said, would be strictly humanitarian in nature and mediated through neutral channels.
We’re Not Linked to Any State or Organization
On allegations of ties to ISIS, Abu Shabab was unequivocal: “We have no connection to any country or organization,” he declared. “These claims are politically motivated attempts to damage our reputation and stir tensions between us, Israel, and Arab states.”
He also dismissed rumors of affiliations with other terror groups, calling them baseless and part of a coordinated disinformation campaign.
As Abu Shabab’s militia continues to operate in the volatile Rafah region, its complex relationships with both the Israeli military and the Palestinian Authority remain crucial to understanding the evolving dynamics on the ground in Gaza.
