Hamas Militias Armed by Israel Spark Fears of Bloodshed in Gaza

Strategic Insights -

Tensions in Gaza have heightened after Hamas recalled 7,000 of its internal security forces, prompting fears of a bloodletting in the volatile region. The recall came after a confrontation between Hamas and the Dughmush clan in Gaza City left two elite Hamas fighters dead. As Hamas launched an armed raid on the clan's stronghold, footage emerged of Hamas fighters beating men in the street and issuing warnings of control despite the ceasefire. The Israeli government has authorized arming anti-Hamas militias in Gaza, injecting more weapons into a territory already awash with arms. Talks will be held on how Hamas is to be disarmed and demobilised, most likely by an Arab stabilisation force.

Key Takeaways:

  • Hamas has recalled 7,000 of its internal security forces to "cleanse Gaza of outlaws and collaborators," including militiamen armed by Israel.
  • The move has sparked fears of a bloodletting in Gaza, with footage emerging of Hamas fighters beating men in the street and issuing warnings of control.
  • The Israeli government has authorized arming anti-Hamas militias in Gaza, including the Popular Forces group led by Yasser Abu Shabab in Rafah.
  • The inclusion of militia sponsorships drew criticism from former Netanyahu allies on the right of Israeli politics, including former defense minister Avigdor Lieberman.
  • Israel's defense minister, Israel Katz, has announced plans to dismantle the tunnel network constructed by Hamas under the strip.
  • The ceasefire agreement requires Hamas to hand over remaining hostages within 72 hours and Israel to lift restrictions on aid flow before negotiations for a second phase begin.

Statistics:

  • 7,000: Number of Hamas internal security forces recalled by Hamas.
  • 72 hours: Time frame given to Hamas to hand over remaining hostages as per the ceasefire agreement.
  • PS690 (3,000 ): Amount offered by Abu Shabab's Facebook page for new fighters who join the militia.
  • PS1,150 (5,000 ): Amount offered by Abu Shabab's Facebook page for officers who join the militia.

Sources:

  • Al-Arab al-Daf`a news agency
  • Kan public broadcaster
  • X (formerly Twitter)
  • Al-Jazeera