The IDF eliminated Hamas operatives who had attempted to harm fighters from Yasser Abu Shabab’s militia during a shootout between the two sides. According to a report published today (Tuesday) by Yinnon Yitach Shalom, an Israeli air unit intervened and provided support to Abu Shabab’s men.
Ultimatum to Hamas gangs: stop your thuggish behavior
As reported, yesterday the militia led by Abu Shabab—armed with weapons provided by Israel—released a public statement expressing disapproval of attacks on American aid convoys. The statement blamed “armed gangs” operating in Hamas-controlled areas and near American aid centers.
The militia gave these gangs a 24-hour ultimatum to “cease their thuggish behavior,” warning that if they failed to comply, the group would publish details exposing their identities and those directing them.
The militia stressed that it has no role in distributing American humanitarian aid in the Gaza Strip. At the same time, it praised the efforts of “the American agency,” as phrased in the statement, calling on it to improve coordination mechanisms, ensure fair distribution of goods, and rely on official welfare databases.
An organization claiming to serve only Gaza’s civilians
Yasser Abu Shabab, a native of Rafah and senior member of the Bedouin Tarabin clan, recently emerged as the leader of a new group known as the “Popular Force,” which claims its sole focus is serving the civilian population of Gaza.
In the past, Abu Shabab was a central figure in smuggling activity along the Egypt-Gaza border. According to Palestinian sources, he was arrested by Hamas before the war began on charges of theft and drug trafficking, but escaped from prison after the Hamas security headquarters was bombed from the air. Due to public pressure, his family in Gaza publicly disowned him last month and declared full rejection of him after acknowledging his involvement in security activity on behalf of Israel.
According to the Telegram channel “al-Mukhābarāt,” Abu Shabab took advantage of the security vacuum in the Strip to establish local control in the al-Shouka area east of Rafah, where he set up a training camp for his fighters. Members of the clan are well-armed and seen operating openly.
Despite reports of indirect cooperation, it is important to note that Abu Shabab is not an ally of Israel. He is a local actor with his own interests. His clan has repeatedly been accused of smuggling into Israel.
