Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that his government has “activated” certain Palestinian clans in Gaza as part of its fight against Hamas.
In a video message posted on social media platform X on Thursday, Netanyahu stated that the decision was taken based on advice from “security officials” with the goal of protecting Israeli soldiers’ lives.

Netanyahu’s statement came shortly after he faced criticism from the political rivals for reportedly arming non-official Palestinian factions in the region.

CLANS LIKE ABU SHABAB INVOLVED IN GAZA AID EFFORTS

Some Palestinian families and clans in Gaza have long held influence over local areas. They also possess weapons. These clans have had a complicated relationship with Hamas, including past conflicts. An Israeli official, speaking anonymously due to restrictions, said that one of the groups Netanyahu referred to is the Abu Shabab clan.

In recent weeks, the Abu Shabab group posted online that its members were involved in securing aid convoys linked to a new distribution system supported by Israel in southern Gaza. This cooperation is being positioned by Israel as a way to bypass Hamas control while ensuring humanitarian aid continues to flow.