Israel’s Covert Support for Palestinian Militia: A New Power Dynamic in Gaza
A recent investigation by Sky News has unveiled startling revelations about Israel’s covert support for a Palestinian militia with extremist ties, raising questions about the future governance of Gaza. As negotiations continue regarding who will control the region post-conflict, Israel appears to be actively shaping the landscape by backing Yasser Abu Shabab, a former looting gang leader, and his militia, the Popular Forces.
The Emergence of the Popular Forces
In the wake of ongoing conflict, several tribal militias in Gaza have pledged allegiance to Yasser Abu Shabab, positioning him as a potential leader in the region. This shift is significant, as Abu Shabab’s group has a notorious history of looting humanitarian aid trucks, a practice that has drawn international condemnation. The Sky News investigation has tracked the movements and activities of Abu Shabab and his militia for months, revealing a complex web of support and resources flowing into Gaza.
Humanitarian Aid and Controversial Partnerships
Despite the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation‘s stated commitment to impartiality, the investigation found that the Popular Forces are receiving food supplies from this U.S.-funded organization. This raises ethical concerns about the distribution of aid in a conflict zone, where humanitarian principles dictate that assistance should be provided based on need, not political affiliation.
In exclusive interviews, a senior commander from the Popular Forces and an Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) soldier detailed how Israel is allegedly facilitating the smuggling of cash, weapons, and vehicles into Gaza. Experts suggest that this strategy is part of a broader “divide and conquer” approach, aimed at maintaining Israeli influence in the region by fostering rival factions among Palestinians.
A Glimpse into Daily Life in Southern Gaza
The investigation highlights a stark contrast in living conditions within Gaza. In certain neighborhoods, particularly those aligned with the Popular Forces, residents enjoy relative abundance, showcasing stacks of cash, new smartphones, and even imported dirt bikes. This affluence stands in stark contrast to the dire humanitarian situation faced by many others in the region.
Hassan Abu Shabab, a relative of Yasser and a commander within the Popular Forces, claims that their base now houses around 1,500 individuals, including 500 to 700 fighters. The group’s strategic location near the Kerem Shalom crossing, a vital route for humanitarian aid, has earned it the moniker “Looters’ Alley,” as it has become a focal point for the diversion of aid.
The Role of Smuggling and Aid Distribution
An internal United Nations report from November 2024 identified Yasser Abu Shabab and his militia as key players in the systematic looting of aid convoys. The report noted that their primary source of income stems from smuggling banned goods, such as cigarettes, into Gaza, where prices can soar to $20 per pack.
A senior aid worker who operated in Gaza until early this year recounted witnessing negotiations between aid officials and the Popular Forces for the safe passage of trucks. This raises troubling questions about the complicity of humanitarian organizations in the ongoing conflict.
The Complex Relationship with Israel
Hassan Abu Shabab has openly admitted that the Popular Forces engage in looting and smuggling, but he insists that their actions are aimed at supporting their families rather than enriching themselves. He claims that Israel began coordinating with his group after violent clashes with Hamas, which has declared Abu Shabab a wanted man.
The relationship between the Popular Forces and Israel appears to be facilitated through a “coordination office” run by the Palestinian Authority, which liaises with Israeli and Arab state security agencies. This arrangement has reportedly allowed the Popular Forces to receive weapons, cash, and food supplies, further complicating the already intricate dynamics of power in Gaza.
Humanitarian Principles Under Siege
The involvement of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation in supplying aid to an armed faction has drawn sharp criticism from humanitarian organizations. Sam Rose, the Gaza director for UNRWA, stated that providing aid to armed groups is a “complete breach of humanitarian principles.” The Norwegian Refugee Council echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that aid must remain impartial and not favor any side in a conflict.
In response to the investigation’s findings, a spokesperson for the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation defended their actions, asserting that “every Gazan deserves to be fed with dignity,” including those in areas controlled by the Popular Forces.
The IDF’s Role and Military Coordination
A serving IDF soldier confirmed to Sky News that Israel facilitates the supply of food, weapons, and cash to the Popular Forces, primarily through the Shin Bet security service. This cooperation raises questions about the extent of Israel’s involvement in the internal power struggles within Gaza.
The investigation also revealed that the Popular Forces have received military support during clashes with Hamas, including airstrikes that appear to have been coordinated with Israeli forces. This level of military collaboration suggests a deeper strategic alignment between Israel and the Popular Forces, reminiscent of past Israeli support for Hamas against Fatah.
Historical Context and Future Implications
The current situation in Gaza is not unprecedented. Historically, Israel has employed similar tactics to weaken Palestinian factions by supporting rival groups. Analysts argue that this strategy aims to prevent any single faction from gaining too much power, thereby complicating Palestinian resistance to Israeli occupation.
Amjad Iraqi, a senior analyst at the International Crisis Group, noted that Israel’s support for the Popular Forces mirrors its past support for Hamas, emphasizing the need to fragment Palestinian unity. This approach could lead to a future where Gaza is controlled by various warlords, resulting in prolonged internal strife.
The Path Forward
As negotiations regarding Gaza’s post-war governance continue, Israel’s actions suggest a desire to shape the region’s future in a way that ensures its continued influence. While the Popular Forces have publicly downplayed ambitions for governance, statements from Hassan Abu Shabab indicate a desire for broader control, including potential reforms to the education system and discussions about normalizing relations with Israel.
In conclusion, the revelations surrounding Israel’s support for the Popular Forces raise critical questions about the future of governance in Gaza and the ethical implications of humanitarian aid distribution in conflict zones. As the situation evolves, the international community must grapple with the complexities of power dynamics in the region and the potential consequences of continued fragmentation among Palestinian factions.
