Israel’s Secret Arms Deal: Why Is Israel Supplying AK Rifles to Anti-Hamas Forces in Gaza?

A Shocking Shift: Israel Arms Anti-Hamas Militias in Gaza

Did you ever imagine Israel would supply weapons to Palestinians in Gaza? As of June 5, 2025, Israeli authorities have quietly begun arming a local militia in Rafah, Gaza, with AK rifles and other light weapons. This group, led by clan leader Yasser Abu Shabab, is seen as a rival to Hamas. The move, confirmed by multiple Israeli and international sources, marks a dramatic shift in Israel’s Gaza strategy. Instead of relying solely on military operations, Israel is now trying to weaken Hamas from within by empowering local opponents. This is the first time since the October 7 attacks that Israel has deliberately armed a Palestinian group inside Gaza, signaling a new and risky phase in the conflict.

Who Are the Anti-Hamas Forces? Meet Yasser Abu Shabab’s Militia

So, who exactly are these anti-Hamas fighters? The main group receiving Israeli arms is known as the Popular Forces (PF), led by Yasser Abu Shabab, a prominent figure in southern Gaza. Abu Shabab’s clan has a complicated reputation: some see them as protectors of humanitarian aid convoys, while others accuse them of looting and criminal activity. The group insists they are not a new militia but ordinary Gazans forced to take up arms due to the chaos and lawlessness in the Strip. Their stated mission is to restore stability and ensure the safe delivery of humanitarian aid. However, critics warn that arming such groups could backfire, as their loyalty and long-term intentions remain uncertain.

The Weapons: AK Rifles and Seized Hamas Arms

What kind of weapons are being supplied? Israeli defense sources confirm that the arms include Kalashnikov (AK) rifles, many of which were actually seized from Hamas during recent fighting. These rifles are now being handed over to Abu Shabab’s group, with the goal of helping them defend themselves against Hamas attacks. The weapons transfer was reportedly organized by Israeli security agencies and approved directly by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, but without the formal approval of Israel’s security cabinet. This secrecy has sparked heated debate within Israeli politics, with opposition leaders accusing Netanyahu of acting recklessly and bypassing proper oversight.

Why Is Israel Doing This? The Strategy Behind the Arms Deal

Why would Israel take such a risk? The answer lies in the ongoing struggle to defeat Hamas and restore order in Gaza. By arming rival factions like Abu Shabab’s militia, Israel hopes to create internal pressure on Hamas, weaken its control, and possibly pave the way for a more stable, post-Hamas Gaza. Some Israeli officials describe these local militias as essential partners in securing humanitarian corridors and protecting aid deliveries. However, others warn that empowering armed clans could lead to more chaos, especially if these groups have ties to criminal networks or even extremist organizations like ISIS.

Political Backlash: Netanyahu Under Fire at Home

The decision to arm anti-Hamas groups has triggered a political storm in Israel. Opposition leaders such as Avigdor Liberman and Yair Lapid have publicly criticized Prime Minister Netanyahu, accusing him of arming what they call the Gaza equivalent of ISIS. They argue that the move was made without proper cabinet approval and could have disastrous consequences if the weapons are turned against Israel or used in criminal activity. The Prime Minister’s office has not denied the reports, stating only that Israel is using ‘multiple means’ to defeat Hamas. This controversy has become a hot topic in Israeli media and parliament, with many questioning the wisdom and oversight of the operation.

How Are Palestinians Reacting? Tensions and Humanitarian Concerns

Reactions among Palestinians in Gaza are mixed. Some welcome the emergence of new forces that might challenge Hamas’s harsh rule, while others fear the rise of armed gangs and further instability. Humanitarian organizations are especially concerned, as the new militias are now playing a key role in protecting aid convoys and distribution centers. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, for example, has resumed large-scale meal distributions in Rafah, relying on local armed escorts to keep the aid flowing. But with accusations of looting and internal violence, many worry that the arming of local groups could make the humanitarian crisis even worse.

International Response: Worries About Escalation

Globally, Israel’s decision is raising eyebrows. Human rights groups and foreign governments are watching closely, worried that sending more guns into Gaza could fuel further violence and undermine hopes for peace. There are also concerns about accountability: with no clear way to track the weapons, what happens if they end up in the wrong hands? Some analysts say this move could set a dangerous precedent, making future peace efforts even harder. Others argue that Israel, facing a determined enemy in Hamas, has few good options left.

What’s Next? The Future of Gaza’s Power Struggle

What does the future hold for Gaza? As Israel continues to arm anti-Hamas forces, the power struggle inside the Strip is intensifying. Hamas has already responded with targeted attacks on Abu Shabab’s group, and the risk of all-out clan warfare is growing. For ordinary Gazans, the situation remains dire: caught between armed factions, ongoing Israeli military operations, and a deepening humanitarian crisis. Whether Israel’s gamble will pay off or backfire remains to be seen, but one thing is clear—Gaza’s future is more uncertain than ever.

Conclusion: A Gamble With High Stakes

To sum up, Israel’s decision to supply AK rifles to anti-Hamas groups in Gaza is one of the boldest—and most controversial—moves of the current conflict. While the goal is to weaken Hamas and restore order, the risks are enormous. As debates rage in Israel, Gaza, and beyond, everyone is watching to see if this strategy will bring peace or plunge the region into even deeper chaos. What do you think—can arming local militias ever bring stability, or is this just adding fuel to the fire?