Anti-Hamas Armed Groups Emerge in Gaza, Seek Role in Future Peace Plan

A network of armed groups has emerged in the Gaza Strip, operating against Hamas. These groups, which include family clans, criminal organizations, and newly formed militias, are seeking a role in Gaza's future governance under a potential peace plan.

Emergence and Support

Some of these militias are reportedly backed by Israel, a fact confirmed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Reports also suggest covert support from elements within the Palestinian Authority (PA), which governs parts of the occupied West Bank and is a political rival to Hamas.

These groups operate in local areas within the 53% of Gaza currently controlled by Israeli forces. However, they are not officially included in the US-proposed peace plan, which outlines an International Stabilisation Force and a newly trained Palestinian police force for Gaza's security.

Key Figures and Claims

Yasser Abu Shabab leads the Popular Forces, a significant militia operating near Rafah. A deputy from his group has discussed coordinating with the Board of Peace, the international body envisioned to administer Gaza under the peace plan.

Hossam al-Astal, who leads the Counter-Terrorism Strike Force near Khan Younis, informed Israeli media that US representatives confirmed his group would have a role in Gaza's future police force. A US official stated there was no announcement regarding this at the time. Al-Astal's group, though small, manages a tent city near Khan Younis and states it coordinates with the Israeli side for supplies, including food and weapons. He denies being an