<br><br>**Title** Israel Backs Anti-Hamas Group in Gaza Controversy Surrounds Netanyahu's Admission<br><br>The recent revelation that Israel is supporting an armed group in the Gaza Strip that opposes Hamas has sparked widespread controversy. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed that his country is backing a local Bedouin tribe led by Yasser Abu Shabab, who has been accused of criminal activities, including looting aid trucks.<br><br>**Background**<br><br>The controversy surrounding Israel's decision to arm Abu Shabab's group began when former Defense Minister Avigdor Liberman described the government as providing weapons to criminals and felons. This statement sparked outrage among many, who saw it as an attempt to justify Israel's actions in supporting a group with a history of violence.<br><br>**The Group**<br><br>According to experts, Abu Shabab is the leader of a criminal gang operating in the Rafah area that has been accused of various illegal activities. The European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) think tank describes him as a gangster who has been involved in drug smuggling and other illicit activities.<br><br>**Context**<br><br>Israel's decision to arm Abu Shabab's group is seen by many as an attempt to undermine Hamas's power in Gaza. Hamas, which has ruled the territory for nearly two decades, has been at war with Israel for nearly 20 months. The ECFR notes that Israel regularly accuses Hamas of looting aid convoys in Gaza.<br><br>**Concerns**<br><br>The decision to support Abu Shabab's group has raised concerns about the potential consequences. Michael Milshtein, an expert on Palestinian affairs, warns that arming a criminal gang could lead to catastrophic outcomes. It seems that actually the Shabak (Israeli security agency), or the [military] thought it was a wonderful idea to turn this militia — gang actually — into a proxy, to give them weapons and money and shelter from army operations, he said.<br><br>**Reactions**<br><br>Abu Shabab's group has denied any involvement with Israel, claiming that their weapons are simple and outdated, acquired through support from their own people. Hamas has also responded, calling on civilians to oppose the group and accusing them of choosing betrayal and theft as their path.<br><br>**Conclusion**<br><br>Israel's decision to arm Abu Shabab's group is a complex issue with far-reaching implications. While some see it as a necessary move to undermine Hamas's power, others view it as an attempt to justify violence and disregard for international law. As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear the future of Gaza hangs in the balance.<br><br>**Keywords** Netanyahu, Israel, Gaza, Hamas, Abu Shabab, Bedouin tribe, criminal gang, ECFR, Milshtein
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