In October 2023, Yasser abu Shabab, a Palestinian from Rafah, was imprisoned in a Hamas-run jail in Gaza on drug trafficking charges. Following the outbreak of the conflict, he was released, though the circumstances remain unclear.
Abu Shabab resurfaced when Israeli defense officials acknowledged arming a group called the Anti-Terror Service, comprised of around 100 armed men operating in eastern Rafah under his command. He is known as "the Israeli agent" and is widely considered a traitor. Israeli officials stated their goal was to reduce military casualties and undermine Hamas, but critics warned of a potential civil war in Gaza.
Abu Shabab, 32, has gained significant influence, controlling aid routes near the Kerem Shalom crossing. His group is accused of looting aid trucks and having ties to jihadist groups. The head of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in occupied Palestinian territories, Jonathan Whittall, stated that criminal gangs, with the apparent allowance of Israeli forces, were stealing aid.
In an interview, Abu Shabab blamed Hamas for the war and denied looting, claiming his group provided security for aid trucks. He stated his activities were humanitarian and for the benefit of his people. Videos show his group operating alongside Israeli soldiers in IDF-controlled areas. When questioned about coordination with Israeli forces, Abu Shabab denied direct collaboration.
Reports indicate Israel provided Abu Shabab's group with weapons, including those seized from Hamas. Since the easing of the aid blockade, Abu Shabab has established checkpoints near Kerem Shalom. A diplomatic official suggested the US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) had contact with Abu Shabab, though the GHF denied using his group for security.
Abu Shabab, in his responses, blamed Hamas for looting aid trucks, despite contradictory statements. He later admitted to raiding aid trucks to feed his family. Hamas has publicly declared its intention to kill him, and Abu Shabab has reasons to despise Hamas, as they killed his brother and have attempted to kill him.
Reports indicate Israeli soldiers have clashed with Hamas members to protect Abu Shabab. The Israeli prime minister has admitted to activating clans in Gaza opposing Hamas, sparking controversy. Abu Shabab's family disowned him, further isolating him.
Analysts suggest Abu Shabab's rise could escalate the conflict. His group may face confrontations with rival gangs and popular committees. This situation could lead to civil unrest, with civilians potentially suffering the most.
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