Netanyahu Faces Backlash Over Arming Clans in Gaza Amid Ongoing Conflict

Amid rising tensions, Prime Minister Netanyahu has confirmed that Israel is supplying weapons to a Gaza clan opposing Hamas, prompting sharp criticism from political rivals and raising concerns about security implications. Critics argue this move exacerbates the humanitarian crisis and threatens Israeli citizens.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has confirmed that his government is providing arms to certain clans in Gaza that are reportedly opposed to Hamas. This revelation follows reports from Israeli media citing defense sources which stated that Netanyahu had personally approved weapon supplies to a specific faction in southern Gaza. Politicians from across the political spectrum have expressed concern over the implications of Netanyahu's actions for Israeli security.

In a video shared on social media, Netanyahu defended the decision, claiming it was intended to protect Israeli soldiers and suggesting that publicizing the initiative would only serve Hamas's interests. The group receiving the arms is led by Yasser Abu Shabab, who claims to be defending aid deliveries into Gaza. However, critics accuse this group of looting instead of protecting the humanitarian efforts.

UN officials have dramatically warned that the majority of Gaza’s population is at risk of famine due to insufficient aid. The growing controversy around Netanyahu’s decision could spiral into a major political mishap, as local defense sources have corroborated opposition claims regarding the unapproved transfer of arms.

Prominent opposition figure Avigdor Lieberman criticized the move, labeling the group as "criminal" and suggesting ties with the Islamic State. He claimed Netanyahu did not seek cabinet approval for this decision. Despite these allegations, Abu Shabab contended that his group's armament was outdated and sourced from their own community, denying Israeli involvement.

Reports indicate that internal tensions may be rising as Hamas has begun to target members of the Abu Shabab clan, indicating a potential shift in power dynamics within Gaza. As Netanyahu’s office defended the strategy as part of a broader campaign to eliminate Hamas, opposition leader Yair Golan expressed grave concerns, warning that the Prime Minister poses a risk to Israel’s national security rather than focusing on urgent issues like hostage negotiations and citizen safety.

With the humanitarian crisis intensifying and violence escalating, Netanyahu's controversial decision continues to draw widespread criticism from various factions within Israel and beyond.