Israel Arms Hamas Rivals in Gaza: New Strategy or Geopolitical Trap?

What do you do when your biggest enemy is also your biggest headache? Israel has decided not to simply fight Hamas, but to play a complex game by arming its enemies in the heart of Gaza. Is this a smart strategy or a recipe for another disaster? As weapons fall into the hands of “criminal groups” and “militants,” and political leaders talk about “positive developments,” the world is watching as the fine line between security and chaos becomes increasingly blurred.

The Shujaiya neighborhood in Gaza City in October 2024. Omar Al-Qattaa/AFP/Getty Images

Shadow war: arming criminal groups

Israel has officially confirmed that it is supplying weapons to local clans in Gaza who are opposing Hamas. The operation, which Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called a "positive development", has caused a stormy reaction in Israeli society and beyond. Opposition politicians do not hide their indignation, calling the decision "complete madness" and emphasizing the threat to national security CNN.

Former Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman says Israel is supplying weapons to groups he likens to ISIS and that have a criminal past. These groups, he says, could easily turn their weapons against Israelis, creating a "time bomb" for the country. CNN, NPR.

Who are these “rivals” of Hamas and why are they being armed?

The main beneficiary of Israeli support is a group led by Yasser Abu Shabab, which controls part of the eastern city of Rafah. The clan positions itself as the opposition to Hamas and says it helps protect humanitarian convoys, although aid agencies accuse it of stealing aid. The New York Times, Al Jazeera.

Yasser Abu Shabab has vehemently denied receiving weapons from Israel, claiming that his weapons come from local sources. Hamas, however, calls him a traitor and has waged a campaign against his group that has included assassinations and kidnappings. BBC.

Political context and internal disputes in Israel

Netanyahu's decision to arm the groups was made without the approval of the security cabinet, drawing criticism even from his allies. Opposition leader Yair Lapid called it "the creation of a new time bomb in Gaza," saying that instead of seeking peaceful solutions, the government risks deepening the chaos. CNN, BBC.

The move reflects Israel’s deep dilemma: how to dismantle Hamas’s rule without creating a vacuum that could be filled by even more radical forces. The lack of a clear strategy for the future governance of Gaza increases uncertainty and risks.

Humanitarian crisis and consequences for the civilian population

In parallel with the military operations, the Gaza Strip is experiencing an acute humanitarian crisis due to the blockade and shelling. The aid that does arrive is often stolen or blocked, and armed groups supported by Israel are accused of stealing humanitarian cargo. Al Jazeera.

This is creating deep frustration among the population, caught between a rock and a hard place – between Israel’s tough policies and Hamas’ brutality. The situation threatens to turn into a protracted conflict with many civilian casualties.

International reaction and geopolitical consequences

The world community has been alarmed by news that Israel is arming criminal groups in Gaza. Analysts warn that this could lead to an escalation of violence, the expansion of the influence of radical groups and the weakening of the positions of moderate forces in the region. The New York Times, Al Jazeera.

Critics also point out that such a policy could undermine trust in Israel as a partner in peace processes and increase the country's international isolation.

Is there an alternative? A look into the future

Despite the risks, Israel has yet to offer a clear exit strategy from the current situation. The lack of a plan for managing Gaza after the war creates a dangerous vacuum that could be filled by both radicals and criminal groups. CNN.

Stabilizing the region requires a comprehensive approach that includes not only military action but also political dialogue, economic support, and humanitarian initiatives. Without this, the conflict risks dragging on for years, degenerating into an endless cycle of violence.

Conclusion: playing with fire that can burn everyone

Israel's arming of criminal and radical groups in Gaza poses a double challenge. On the one hand, it is an attempt to weaken Hamas and protect its own citizens. On the other, it risks creating even greater instability that could turn against Israel itself and the entire region.

This strategy is like playing with fire, where every new step can lead to unpredictable consequences. Time will tell whether it will be the key to peace or a catalyst for new conflicts.

Sources: CNN, Al Jazeera, The New York Times, BBC, NPR, Times of Israel, The Jerusalem Post