Israel-Gaza: Netanyahu Admits Arming Hamas Rivals
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu admits Israel is arming Gaza clans opposed to Hamas, a move igniting controversy and concern, according to News Directory 3.This admission follows reports detailing weapons supplied to clans like the one led by Yasser abu Shabab, prompting accusations of undermining security. Opposition figures, including Avigdor Lieberman, condemn the decision, citing risks and bypassing proper approval channels. Defense sources confirm the arms transfers, including Kalashnikov rifles, while Abu Shabab denies Israeli aid. How will this further destabilize the already fragile region given Hamas’s response? Delve into the unfolding repercussions of this controversial decision. Discover what’s next …
Netanyahu Confirms Israel arms Gaza Clans Opposing Hamas
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has confirmed reports that Israel is providing weapons to clans in Gaza who oppose Hamas. This move has sparked controversy and raised concerns among Israeli politicians.
Netanyahu addressed the issue in a video, defending the decision by saying it “only saves the lives of israeli soldiers.” He also suggested that publicizing the operation only benefits Hamas.
The weapons are reportedly being supplied to a gaza clan led by Yasser Abu Shabab. This group claims to oppose Hamas and aims to protect aid trucks entering Gaza. However, critics allege the clan is looting the aid convoys.
Opposition leader Avigdor Lieberman accused Netanyahu of unilaterally approving the transfer of weapons to the Abu Shabab clan. Lieberman described the group as “criminals and felons, identified with the Islamic State group,” and claimed the decision bypassed cabinet approval.
Defense sources confirmed that Israel armed the Abu shabab clan with Kalashnikov rifles, some seized from Hamas. The clan operates in Rafah, an area under Israeli military control.
However, yasser Abu Shabab denied receiving weapons from Israel, stating online that his group’s weapons are “simple, outdated and came through the support of our own people.”
Hamas sources have indicated that Abu Shabab’s activities are causing friction, with reports suggesting the Hamas armed wing has begun assassinating clan members.
“What’s wrong with this? It only saves the lives of Israeli solders,and publicising it only helps Hamas,” Netanyahu said in a video posted on X.
Netanyahu’s office stated that Israel is “working to defeat Hamas through various means, based on the recommendations of all the heads of the security establishment.”
Yair Golan, leader of the Democrats in the Knesset, strongly criticized the initiative, stating on X that “Netanyahu is a threat to Israel’s national security…he is creating a new ticking time-bomb in Gaza.”
What’s next
The political fallout from Israel’s arming of Gaza clans is likely to continue, with potential implications for regional security and stability. Further scrutiny from Israeli politicians and international observers is expected.