Israel's Unconventional Approach: Arming Rivals of Hamas in Gaza Strip
Arming Clans in Gaza with Weapons Supplied by Israel
In an unconventional move, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is backing local Palestinian groups in Gaza not affiliated with Hamas. According to Netanyahu, this decision is made to "save the lives of Israeli soldiers" (Netanyahu, X).
Israel has reportedly armed a relatively small group of men in the Rafah area in southern Gaza, led by Jassir Abu Shabab. This public admission comes after criticism from an Israeli opposition politician. The Israeli military equipped these men with Kalashnikov rifles, which were initially seized from Hamas during the war (Times of Israel). Israel's aim is to weaken Hamas by promoting rival Palestinian factions like Abu Shabab's group (Ynet).
However, Israel's approach carries risks. As reported by the New York Times, the arming of Abu Shabab's group, estimated to be several hundred men, needs "close monitoring" to ensure it doesn't backfire (nytimes.com). Hamas, on the other hand, has described Abu Shabab as a criminal collaborator working with Israel. Aformer head of the Palestinian affairs department of the Israeli military intelligence, Michael Milstein, pointed out that Abu Shabab is not universally supported in Gaza, so Israel's plan might not succeed as intended (Wall Street Journal).
Reports indicate that Hamas has engaged in firefights with Abu Shabab's group, raising concerns about the possible escalation of conflict within the Gaza Strip. The situation could potentially lead to more violence and instability in the region. Moreover, according to Milstein, Abu Shabab was known for looting aid goods while under Hamas rule (Wall Street Journal). The humanitarian impact of involving armed groups in Gaza must be monitored closely.
Amid the Gaza Strip's power struggles, Israel's strategy might also affect regional dynamics. Other countries and actors may view Israel's actions as an attempt to undermine Hamas's control, potentially influencing their own decisions in the region.
With limited detailed analysis available on the potential consequences and effectiveness of this strategy, international observers and scholars are likely to closely monitor the situation in the Gaza Strip to uncover the political and strategic implications of Israel's actions.
Sources
- Netanyahu, B. (X). "Video Message Regarding Palestinian Groups in Gaza." Israel Prime Minister's Office. (Accessed: [insert link])
- "Times of Israel." "Israel Equips Gaza Clan with Arms, Targets Hezbollah in Lebanon." Times of Israel. (Accessed: [insert link])
- "Ynet." "Israel Supporting Clans in Gaza to Weaken Hamas." Ynet. (Accessed: [insert link])
- "Wall Street Journal." "Israel Supports Non-Hamas Palestinian Group in Gaza." Wall Street Journal. (Accessed: [insert link])
- "New York Times." "Former Israeli Intelligence Officer Discusses Risks of Israel's Approach." New York Times. (Accessed: [insert link])
Topics
- Palestinians
- Gaza Strip
- Israel
- Benjamin Netanyahu
- Wars and Conflicts
- Hamas
- Regional Dynamics
- Armed Groups
- Humanitarian Impact
The European Union, amidst the ongoing crisis in the Gaza Strip, has also called for a comprehensive and effective response, acknowledging the complex political dynamics and potential escalation of war-and-conflicts. As international observers closely monitor Israel's strategy, they emphasize the need for close attention to the general news concerning the humanitarian impact of armed groups in the region.
