Hamas has reportedly killed 50 fighters in recent months from a Palestinian group armed by Israel in Gaza. According to Israeli media, clashes erupted on Tuesday between Hamas fighters and members of a militia led by Yasser Abu Shabab, known for his involvement in criminal activities. Israeli soldiers intervened to protect Abu Shabab, resulting in casualties on both sides. Israeli defense officials acknowledged arming the group to undermine Hamas, despite the group’s history of looting aid. An Israeli air force drone struck Hamas militants, marking the first time an Israeli strike had aimed to assist the Abu Shabab militia, which was providing security for aid trucks passing into Gaza. On Tuesday, Abu Shabab’s militia, known as the Anti-Terror Service or Popular Forces, claimed that Hamas killed over 50 of their volunteers while they guarded aid convoys. They also said they ambushed Hamas members from the Arrow unit, killing six of them. Abu Shabab, described as “the Israeli agent” on social media, was imprisoned in Gaza on drug trafficking charges before the outbreak of the conflict. He managed to leave prison, and now leads a gang of over 100 men in eastern Rafah. Hamas has vowed to kill Abu Shabab and accused Israel of protecting him. Israeli analysts have warned that Israel’s decision to arm Abu Shabab could escalate tensions in Gaza to the point of a civil war.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/jun/11/hamas-has-killed-50-palestinian-fighters-armed-by-israel-in-gaza-factions-associates-say
