Egyptian Sources: Israeli-Backed Palestinian Groups Expand in Israeli-Controlled Areas of Gaza

Reuters, citing three Egyptian security and military sources, reported that Palestinian groups opposed to Hamas and backed by Israel have intensified their activities and expanded in areas controlled by Israel within the Gaza Strip since the last truce began.

Key Findings:

• Increased Numbers: The number of fighters in these groups has risen to about 1,000 members, an increase of 400 since the ceasefire in October.

• Area of Operation: These groups operate out of Hamas's reach in over half of the Strip, which remains under Israeli military control.

• Israeli Support: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu previously acknowledged in mid-year Israel's support for these anti-Hamas "clan movements," but provided no details on the nature or scale of this support.

• Risk of Internal Conflict: The emergence of these groups, despite their small and local nature, raises concerns about the risk of internal conflict among Palestinians and complicates stabilization efforts.

Developments on the Ground:

• Assassination: Yasser Abu Shabeb, a central figure in forming the anti-Hamas "Popular Forces" in Rafah, was killed last week. His deputy, Ghassan Duhaini, took command, vowing to continue the same path.

• Mutual Executions: Duhaini later announced the execution of two men he claimed were Hamas fighters, in retaliation for the killing of a member of his group.

• Pro-Israel Leaders: Hossam Al-Astal, leader of another anti-Hamas faction in Khan Younis, stated that the "war on terror will continue and the "New Gaza" project will move forward."

• Funding and Coordination: Al-Astal admitted to having contact with Israel regarding "coordinating the entry of food and all resources necessary for survival." He denied receiving military support from Israel but noted receiving arms and funds from unnamed international "friends."

• Hamas Response: Hamas labeled these groups as "agents" and vowed to pursue them. However, a Hamas spokesperson noted that they are "protected by the occupation army in the areas where these forces are located, which complicates the work of the security apparatus."