Anti-Hamas figure Yasser Abu Shabab reportedly killed

• The operation against Abu Shabab’s militia signals an escalation of internal clashes in Gaza targeting factions accused of collaborating with ‘Israel’.
• Reports highlight the coordination among multiple Palestinian resistance groups, showing an organized approach to eliminating armed militias considered threats to local security and public safety.

Early reports from Hebrew media indicated that unknown gunmen have killed Yasser Abu Shabab, the leader of the “Popular Forces” militia operating east of Rafah in southern Gaza. 

Abu Shabab Accused of Collaborating with ‘Israel’

Abu Shabab had long been accused of collaborating with ‘Israel’, receiving weapons and support under its protection. These allegations reportedly made him a target for Hamas and several local clans in Gaza.

The militia he led, sometimes referred to as the “collaborator militia” or “Popular Forces,” has also been accused of looting humanitarian aid and carrying out raids on behalf of ‘Israel’ in eastern Rafah.

Planned Ambush by Hamas

According to Hamas-affiliated sources, a large number of Abu Shabab’s fighters fell into a carefully planned ambush by several Palestinian factions, including Hamas and Islamic Jihad. Among those reportedly killed were Yasser Abu Shabab and Ghassan al-Dahini.

The operation was coordinated by fighters from multiple groups, resulting in the elimination of a significant portion of the militia.

Hamas-affiliated sources, including a post by Hamas leader Jasser al-Barghouthi, emphasized that Quds Brigades and Qassam Brigades will remain vigilant and continue operations against ‘Israeli’-backed militias.