Rafah/Gaza City. On July 7, 2025.
Yasser Abu Shabab, head of Israel-backed “Popular Forces,” made this bold claim while proclaiming Hamas to be “at the end of its road.” This signaled an important shift in local power amid rising tensions within Gaza enclave. This statement from him signifies increasing internal fragmentation as his group positions itself as a formidable rival to Hamas authority.
Yasser Abu Shabab, who commands 300 fighters in eastern Rafah, made an eye-opening statement in a rare interview with Israeli media:
“Whoever supports child traffickers will soon meet their end.” En.Wikipedia.Org and I24news.tv both mention it; also Jfeed has reported on it too and +7 has listed them, plus 3 from Wikipedia itself (source).
+3 He accused Hamas of initiating the October 7 attacks without regard for Gaza’s population, and presented his militia as true protectors of civilians.
“Israelis hostages must return home; every innocent person… should be reunited with his/her family.”
i24news.tv
“Popular Forces”
Established in mid-2024, the Popular Forces have taken over Hamas’s diminishing grip in Rafah–an area partially controlled by Israeli forces–especially Rafah. Abu Shabab claims his group protects aid convoys while upholding security, challenging corruption and brutality perpetrated by Hamas as well as challenging its alleged corruption and brutality (reuters.com; en.wikipedia.org/Wikipedia ; Jfeed). They claim Abu Shabab claims his group protects convoys while upholding security and challenging the latter’s alleged corruption and brutality (reuters.com/7); En.WikiWikisource for more.)
Israeli support of Abu Shabab’s militia includes weapons and logistics support, according to reports. Abu Shabab claims they operate “under legitimate Palestinian authority”, though Hamas considers him an enemy traitor accused of looting aid, per en.wikipedia.org.
Hamas Pushback and Inner Divisions Hamas retaliated by branding Abu Shabab an criminal and collaborator. On July 2, Gaza’s Interior Ministry issued an arrest order and charged Abu Shabab of treason before its “Revolutionary Court”. Additionally, it has reportedly sent fighters out to eliminate him (reportedly using “en.wikipedia.org”, “reuters.com”, and “wikipedia”).
This move illustrates increasing unrest among Gaza’s tribes and clans, following months of anti-Hamas demonstrations throughout Gaza since late March; locals calling for an end to Hamas rule and conflict by conducting widespread demonstrations against Hamas’ rule and holding anti-Hamas rallies throughout their territory. For more information please see en.wikipedia.org (En wikipedia).
Hamas Is Losing Ground
Recent reports indicate Hamas’ infrastructure, including tunnel networks and command hierarchy, is coming under severe attack, with Iran’s support being reduced following Israeli strikes, according to reports published by Reuter’s.com.
Experts agree Hamas’ power has become more localized and dispersed since its baytal governance has become weaker, leading to clan-based forces like Abu Shabab’s Popular Forces being formed as both symptoms and catalysts for this shift (sources: en.wikipedia.org; reuters.com and Jfeed respectively). Implications for Ceasefire and Governance
Abu Shabab claims his militia is prepared to assume governance responsibilities when Hamas collapses and vows to continue its fight no matter the cost (sources: Reuter’s.com and Jfeed).
But critics warn of potential civil unrest and aid disruption in Gaza, an already devastated territory.
Israeli and Hamas representatives continue indirect ceasefire discussions in Doha. Hamas has responded positively to U.S.-backed proposals; however, its demand that Israel withdraw is inviolate remains firm.
What Lies Ahead
With internal discontent increasing and armed groups challenging Hamas’ control, Gaza’s future governance remains unclear. Will rival groups such as Popular Forces gain legitimacy and stability or spark civil strife? Will ceasefire negotiations take into account these shifting power dynamics?
Hamas currently faces pressure on both fronts, from Israel’s military and diplomatic efforts, as well as within Gaza from emerging armed factions and civilian dissent. Abu Shabab’s remarks highlight a key potential shift, one which could either establish new authorities within Gaza, or throw it further into instability.