Israeli PM Defends Move Amid Mounting Civilian Casualties and Aid Crisis in the Region
In a controversial admission, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has confirmed that Israel is backing an armed group inside Gaza that opposes Hamas. The declaration comes amid ongoing Israeli air raids in the region that have reportedly left dozens of Palestinians dead, including women, children, and journalists.
In a video posted on social media Thursday, Netanyahu responded to a leak by former Defence Minister Avigdor Liberman, saying:
“What did Liberman leak? That security sources activated a clan in Gaza that opposes Hamas? What is bad about that? It is only good — it is saving lives of Israeli soldiers.”
This marks the first time the Israeli government has openly acknowledged its cooperation with local militant groups in Gaza. The supported faction is allegedly led by Yasser Abu Shabab, a figure with tribal ties to both Gaza and Egypt’s Sinai region. Media reports indicate that roughly 100 fighters, backed by Israel, operate under the group known variously as the “Popular Forces” and the “Anti-Terror Service.”
Allegations of Criminal Activity
While Israeli officials defend the collaboration as a tactical effort to weaken Hamas, humanitarian agencies have raised serious concerns. Aid agencies and local officials have accused these local armed groups of looting aid convoys and attacking civilians attempting to collect food.
Despite claiming to protect humanitarian supply routes, the Abu Shabab group denies any affiliation with Israeli forces.
In response to these developments, Hamas released a strong statement accusing the group of betrayal and theft.
“They have chosen betrayal and theft as their path,” Hamas said, urging residents to resist the faction. Hamas also claimed to possess evidence of the group’s direct coordination with Israeli forces.
Aid Crisis and Civilian Deaths Escalate
Chris Gunness, a former UN spokesperson, condemned the deteriorating aid situation, describing it as a “human abattoir.” He accused aid distributors of forcing desperate civilians into violent zones, stating that people are being “herded like animals” and “slaughtered like cattle.”
Recent days have seen a surge in violence around food distribution points. Reports indicate that more than 100 civilians were killed while trying to collect aid, with Israeli troops allegedly opening fire in at least four separate incidents. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), backed by the US and Israel, temporarily shut down after criticism, later reopening only two aid centres with limited operations.
Ongoing Conflict and Diplomatic Talks
While Israel continues its military operations, Hamas political leader Khalil al-Hayya clarified that the group has not rejected a new ceasefire proposal from the US. However, he emphasized the need for revisions that guarantee a complete end to hostilities. Talks with international mediators are ongoing.
Meanwhile, Thursday’s Israeli strikes killed at least 52 people across Gaza, including four journalists in a strike on al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza City. Health officials warned that the humanitarian toll is rising rapidly as air raids and food shortages continue to devastate the population.
Etawah Today will continue monitoring the situation as it unfolds.
