Anti-Hamas Militia Leader Abu Shabab Killed in Gaza Amid Internal Feud

Yasser Abu Shabab, the founder of the pro-Israel “Popular Forces” militia in Gaza, died this week after a violent internal dispute within his organization escalated fatally. Initial reports suggested Abu Shabab had been shot, but Israeli security sources later clarified he died from blunt-force trauma during a brutal internal brawl.

The clash reportedly erupted after Abu Shabab refused to release the nephew of Mahmoud Abu Sanima, a fellow clan member, “in a humiliating manner.” The confrontation turned deadly when Abu Sanima returned armed, leading to further violence. Though Abu Shabab was extracted from Gaza by Israeli security forces for treatment, he succumbed to his injuries en route to Soroka Hospital in Be’er Sheva.

The aftermath was equally bloody. In apparent retaliation, Abu Shabab loyalists executed Abu Sanima’s detained nephew. A broader blood feud followed, culminating in the deaths of five members of the Abu Sanima family, including Mahmoud himself.

The Israeli security establishment is reportedly alarmed by the collapse of Abu Shabab’s militia, once seen as a test case in Israel’s broader plan to empower non-Hamas clans to assume governance roles in a post-war Gaza. His death, some officials concede, exposes the limits of such local collaborations viewed by critics as a “clan fantasy” strategy that lacks grassroots legitimacy.

Hamas swiftly capitalized on the chaos, hailing the militia leader’s death as a major win. The group had recently accused Abu Shabab of “treason” and issued threats against him. His killing has been celebrated in Hamas circles, with reports of gunfire and sweets distributed in Gaza streets.

The collapse of the “Popular Forces” is being interpreted as a warning sign about Israel’s approach to shaping Gaza’s future leadership. Rather than building a viable civilian alternative to Hamas, critics argue, the strategy fostered infighting and bloodshed and handed Hamas a propaganda victory. Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter for updates.