Gazan Militia Leader Admits Coordinating with Israeli Forces Against Hamas

Yasser Abu Shabab, leader of the Popular Forces militia in Gaza, has publicly admitted for the first time to coordinating with Israeli military forces in areas under Israeli control, particularly in Rafah. His group, composed of young Palestinians unaffiliated with any political ideology, is focused on opposing Hamas's rule, which they accuse of injustice and corruption, and is prepared to continue fighting Hamas regardless of casualties, even if a ceasefire is declared. The Popular Forces receive logistical and financial support from Israel and other undisclosed parties, and Abu Shabab emphasized their operations are independent, informing Israeli forces only of their movements. Hamas has labeled Abu Shabab’s group as criminals involved in looting humanitarian aid and has issued an arrest order accusing them of treason. Despite criticism within Israel about backing such groups, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has defended the policy as saving Israeli soldiers' lives. Abu Shabab warned that there is nothing preventing a direct confrontation or civil war with Hamas, signaling ongoing and potentially escalating internal conflict in Gaza.