Gaza Militia Leader Denies Israel Ties, Demands Hamas Resign

Yasser Abu Shabab, leader of the Popular Forces militia in Gaza, has publicly denied allegations of collaboration with Israel and called for Hamas to relinquish power amid escalating clashes. Despite Israeli defense sources claiming Israel is arming his group to oppose Hamas, Abu Shabab insists their weapons come from local sources and that they have no ties to any state or political regime. He emphasized that any coordination with Israel would be strictly humanitarian, aimed at benefiting Palestinians in eastern Rafah, and carried out through mediation channels. Abu Shabab also highlighted the militia's role in protecting civilians from Hamas violence, with hundreds of families reportedly moving into areas under their control seeking safety. He further denied receiving funding from the Palestinian Authority, although he acknowledged cooperation with PA intelligence for security screening to prevent terrorist infiltration. The militia's rise poses a significant challenge to Hamas's control, with Abu Shabab calling for international support to open humanitarian corridors for displaced Palestinians.