**Israel’s Strategy in Dividing Palestinian Clans in Gaza from Hamas: The Complex Dynamics of Internal Disunity and Resistance**

Israel Backs Palestinian Clans in Gaza, Fueling Intra-Palestinian Conflict

October 6, 2025

Jerusalem – As Israeli forces continue operations aimed at dismantling Hamas in Gaza, a controversial strategy has emerged: the bolstering of rival Palestinian groups. Israel is accused of providing military support to militias led by those opposing Hamas, in an attempt to establish an alternative power structure within the enclave and secure aid routes.

The Rise of Clan-Based Militias

The policy reportedly gained traction late last year, following Israeli strikes targeting local police forces in Gaza, justified by claims of universal Hamas affiliation. This created a security vacuum exploited by emerging militias. yaser Abu Shabab,a 32-year-old Palestinian tribesman,rose to prominence in Febuary,leading roughly 100 clansmen to control access to aid deliveries near the critical Kerem Shalom crossing.

Aid organizations have voiced strong criticism,accusing groups like Abu Shabab’s “Popular Forces” of looting aid convoys and exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Concerns about ties to extremist organizations are also escalating.In May, Jonathan Whitall, formerly of the U.N.’s Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, alleged that “criminal gangs, under the watch of Israeli forces,” were operating near the Kerem Shalom border crossing.

Israeli Acknowledgement and Support

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged in June that his government, on the advice of security officials, had “activated” these clans to work against Hamas. He publicly defended the policy, stating it served to protect Israel defense Force soldiers. Reports from Israeli media suggest these groups have received weaponry, including Kalashnikov rifles, from the military, even though Abu Shabab denies receiving arms directly from Israel.

Expanding Network of Rival Groups

Following Abu Shabab’s emergence, other militias have formed throughout Gaza, reportedly operating in coordination with israeli forces.Hussam Al-Astal, a 50-year-old former Palestinian Authority security officer with a controversial past – including accusations of collaboration with Israel and involvement in a high-profile assassination – now leads “The Strike Force Against Terror.” This group controls Qizan Al-Najjar, a village south of Rafah, presenting itself as a safe haven for anti-Hamas elements.

Al-Astal, in a recent interview, claimed his territory enjoys peace and stability, with stringent vetting processes to exclude Hamas affiliates. He openly offered a bounty for killing Hamas fighters, stating, “Every Hamas member I will personally throw in the trash heap.”

Escalating Intra-Palestinian violence

recent clashes between Hamas and these emerging militias have turned deadly. A Hamas attack on a neighborhood in Khan Yunis, targeting clan members suspected of collaborating with Israel, resulted in the deaths of five clansmen. Al-Astal’s forces reportedly assisted in repelling the Hamas attack, and the Israeli military later released footage of targeting Hamas militants in the area, claiming to have killed 20 gunmen. Graphic videos circulating on social media depict the bodies of Hamas members being dragged through the streets.

Historical Precedent and Clan dynamics

This isn’t the first time Israel has attempted to foster alternative governance in Palestinian territories. The “Villages League” initiative in the late 1970s and early 1980s failed to dismantle the influence of the Palestine Liberation Institution. Similarly,Israel previously supported Islamist groups,including Hamas,as a counterweight to other Palestinian factions.

However, collaboration with Israel remains taboo within Palestinian society. Both Abu Shabab and Al-Astal have faced disownment from their families. While some clans have rejected the overtures, others, like the dughmush tribe in Gaza City, have experienced repercussions for refusing to cooperate, including devastating Israeli airstrikes.

Militia Leader	Group Name	Area of Control	Allegations/Notable Actions
Yaser abu Shabab	Popular Forces	Near Kerem Shalom Crossing	Controlling aid routes, accused of looting.
hussam Al-Astal	The Strike Force Against Terror	Qizan Al-Najjar (South of Rafah)	Accusations of collaboration with Israel, bounty on Hamas fighters.

The long-term implications of this strategy remain uncertain. While intended to weaken Hamas, it risks further fracturing Palestinian society and exacerbating the existing humanitarian crisis. The future of Gaza hinges on navigating these complex dynamics, and whether alternative governance structures can bring stability or simply fuel continued conflict.

Understanding palestinian Clan Structures

Palestinian society is deeply rooted in clan-based social structures, with tribal affiliations playing a critically important role in political and social life. These clans frequently enough provide a sense of identity, security, and mutual support. Historically, clans have been key players in local governance and conflict resolution. Their involvement in the current conflict adds a complex layer to an already fraught situation. Council on Foreign Relations provides further insight into Palestinian political dynamics.

did You Know? Clan loyalties can ofen outweigh political ideologies, influencing decision-making and allegiances within Palestinian communities.

Pro Tip: When analyzing the conflict in Gaza, understanding the role of these clan structures is crucial for comprehending the motivations and actions of various actors.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is Israel’s primary goal in supporting Palestinian clans? To weaken Hamas’s control over Gaza and establish an alternative governing force.
• Are all Palestinian clans cooperating with Israel? No, several clans have refused to collaborate and have faced repercussions as an inevitable result.
• What are the concerns surrounding the distribution of aid in Gaza? Ther are accusations that militias are looting aid convoys and exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
• Is this strategy new for Israel? No, Israel has previously attempted to influence Palestinian politics by supporting various groups.
• What is the role of Hamas in this conflict? Hamas remains a powerful force in Gaza and is actively fighting against these emerging militias and Israeli forces.
• how does the past influence the current relationship between Israel and Palestinian groups? History reveals patterns of Israel’s strategic alliances and shifting priorities within Palestinian factions, which show up in the present.
• What are the possible consequences of Israel’s support for Palestinian clans? A potential intensification of intra-Palestinian conflict and further destabilization of the region.

What do you think about Israel’s strategy towards Hamas in Gaza? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

How might the deep-rooted nature of clan loyalties in Gaza hinder IsraelS strategy of leveraging these divisions to weaken hamas?

Historical Context: Clan Structures in Gaza

For centuries, palestinian society in Gaza has been organized around powerful ‘ashira (clan) structures. These aren’t merely familial ties; they represent complex networks of social, economic, and political influence. Understanding these clan dynamics is crucial to deciphering Israel’s current strategy. Historically, these clans have frequently enough operated independently, sometimes cooperating with, and sometimes resisting, governing authorities – including Hamas. Key clans include the Doghmush, Rajab, and siyam families, each controlling significant territory and resources. This pre-existing fragmentation provides a potential fault line for external actors to exploit. The influence of these clans extends to local governance, dispute resolution, and even armed resistance, making them pivotal players in the Gaza Strip’s political landscape.

The Strategy of ‘Divide and Conquer’

Israel’s current approach in Gaza increasingly centers on leveraging these pre-existing clan divisions to weaken Hamas’s control. This isn’t a new tactic – “divide and conquer” strategies have been employed throughout history – but its application in the context of the ongoing conflict is especially nuanced.

* Direct Engagement with Clans: Reports indicate Israeli forces are actively engaging with specific clans, offering concessions or assistance in exchange for cooperation, frequently enough framed as providing aid or security guarantees.

* Economic Incentives: Offering economic opportunities, such as control over aid distribution or reconstruction projects, directly to clans bypassing Hamas’s authority.This aims to create a vested interest in maintaining stability without Hamas.

* Security arrangements: Proposing localized security arrangements where clans take responsibility for maintaining order in thier territories, effectively creating a parallel security force.

* Details Warfare: Utilizing targeted messaging to sow discord between clans and hamas, highlighting perceived grievances or unequal treatment.

This strategy aims to erode hamas’s legitimacy and authority by presenting choice power structures and fostering competition for resources and influence. The goal is not necessarily to eliminate Hamas entirely, but to contain it and reduce its ability to govern and launch attacks against Israel.

Hamas’s Response and Counter-Strategies

Hamas is acutely aware of Israel’s attempts to fracture its support base. Its response has been multi-faceted:

* Strengthening Clan Alliances: Hamas has actively worked to cultivate stronger relationships with key clans, offering patronage and incorporating clan leaders into its governance structures.

* Suppression of Dissent: Cracking down on any perceived challenges to its authority from within clans, using its security forces to maintain control.

* Propaganda and Counter-Narratives: Launching campaigns to discredit Israeli efforts and portray them as attempts to undermine Palestinian unity.

* Resource control: Maintaining tight control over the distribution of aid and resources to prevent clans from becoming overly reliant on Israeli assistance.

* Military Pressure: Demonstrating its continued military strength to deter clans from openly collaborating with Israel.

Though, Hamas faces a significant challenge. Years of governing Gaza have inevitably created resentment among some clans who feel marginalized or excluded from power and resources. This pre-existing discontent provides fertile ground for Israeli influence.

The Role of External Actors & Regional Implications

The dynamics within Gaza aren’t occurring in a vacuum. External actors play a significant role:

* egypt: Historically a key mediator, Egypt maintains close ties with certain Palestinian clans and has been involved in efforts to broker ceasefires and facilitate aid delivery. Its influence is crucial in shaping the internal balance of power.

* Qatar: A major financial supporter of Hamas, Qatar’s role is increasingly scrutinized as Israel seeks to isolate the group.

* United States: The US provides significant military and economic aid to Israel and actively supports its security objectives.

* Iran: Iran’s support for Hamas remains a key factor, providing the group with weapons and funding.

Regional implications are substantial. A fragmented Gaza,controlled by competing clans,could lead to increased instability and violence,potentially spilling over into neighboring countries like Egypt and Jordan. The potential for a power vacuum also raises concerns about the rise of extremist groups.

Case Study: The Doghmush Clan and Rafah

The Doghmush clan, historically dominant in the Rafah area, provides a compelling case study. Prior to the current conflict, the Doghmush had a complex relationship with Hamas, sometimes cooperating on security matters, other times engaging in disputes over land and resources. Reports suggest increased Israeli engagement with the Doghmush, offering assistance with reconstruction in exchange for cooperation in maintaining order. This has reportedly created tensions with Hamas, leading to clashes and a weakening of the group’s control in the rafah area. This example illustrates the practical application of Israel’s strategy and the potential for localized shifts in power dynamics.

Challenges and Limitations of israel’s Strategy

Despite its potential,Israel’s strategy faces significant challenges:

* Deep-Rooted Clan Loyalties: Clan identities are deeply ingrained in Palestinian society,and simply offering economic incentives may not be enough to overcome long-standing allegiances.

* Hamas’s Resilience: hamas has proven remarkably resilient in the face of numerous challenges and retains significant support among the Palestinian population.

* Risk of Escalation: Attempts to manipulate clan dynamics could backfire, leading to increased violence and instability.

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