Why it matters:
The move demonstrates Hamas’s determination to consolidate internal control in Gaza by neutralizing Israeli-backed armed groups. The death of Abu Shabab strengthens Hamas’s role as the legitimate and dominant authority in Gaza, while undermining Israel’s attempts to interfere and cultivate rival local militias.
The big picture:
Resistance officials said Abu Shabab’s killing resulted from long-term surveillance and pursuit, not from an accident.
Israeli media offered a different account, claiming he died from internal disputes and injuries during clashes with his own group.
Israel had reportedly supported Abu Shabab’s faction during operations in Rafah, hoping to use local militias as a “day after” governance alternative to Hamas.
His death highlights the fragile nature of Israel’s proxy networks inside Gaza and the difficulty of sustaining them post‑ceasefire.
Key points:
- Collaborators are being urged to surrender to the resistance security forces under legal procedures.
- Families and tribes were praised for withdrawing social support from collaborators.
- Israel’s strategy of cultivating local armed groups as alternatives to Hamas has been further undermined.
Go deeper:
Hamas Condemns Knesset Bill Easing Land Ownership Rules for Settlers in West Bank
Neda Sajjadi - ahmad shirzadian
