Daijiworld Media Network - Jerusalem

Jerusalem, Jan 25: Israel has continued to support armed Gazan militias to fight Hamas in parts of the Gaza Strip even after the October ceasefire, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal.

The report said that even prior to the ceasefire, Israel—primarily through the Shin Bet and at times in coordination with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF)—provided various forms of assistance to local militias operating in Gaza, including groups such as Abu Shabab.

In a notable instance, the former leader of the Abu Shabab group, Yasser Abu Shabab, was publicly taken to an Israeli hospital on December 4 after being mortally wounded, in an attempt to save his life.

Most of these militias are reportedly active in southern Gaza, particularly in Rafah, where Israel’s control over the territory is strongest. However, following the ceasefire, the groups have drawn less public attention, as continued operations could be seen as undermining the truce.

Earlier this month, Hussam Al Astal, a militia leader, claimed responsibility for the killing of a police official in a Hamas-controlled area and warned of further attacks, the Journal reported. In a video message, Astal was seen brandishing an assault rifle and warning Hamas members of more such operations.

“We say to Hamas and everyone affiliated with Hamas: Just as we reached him, we will come for you, too,” Astal said.

According to Israeli officials and military reservists quoted in the report, Israel’s support for these militias has continued even after the ceasefire and includes drone-based air support, intelligence sharing, weapons, as well as supplies such as cigarettes and food.

While the ceasefire restricts direct IDF operations in Hamas-controlled areas, these Gazan militias are still able to carry out attacks across the Yellow Line, including in locations such as Al Mawasi, which are officially off-limits to Israeli troops. Hamas has claimed that Astal’s group carried out the killing of the police official in this area.

Astal’s group reportedly consists of dozens of armed fighters residing in Israeli-controlled parts of Gaza, who cross the Yellow Line to conduct attacks before returning, the Journal noted.

Though the overall impact of these militias on Hamas’ operational strength has been limited, the report said they are seen as having some effect in undermining Hamas’ image of invincibility as the de facto rulers of Gaza.