Netanyahu: Israel arms Gaza clans to weaken Hamas

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has confirmed Israel is arming certain Gaza clans that are against Hamas, The BBC reported on June 6th.

His statement followed Israeli media reports citing defence sources, who said Netanyahu enabled weapons transfers to a specific group in southern Gaza.

The clan, reportedly led by Yasser Abu Shabab, claims to protect aid convoys but faces accusations of looting. Israeli defence officials confirmed the group received Kalashnikov rifles, with some being seized from Hamas.

Netanyahu defended the decision, saying it saves Israeli soldiers’ lives. Democrat leader of the Knesset, Yair Golan, warned the move endangers national security and accused Netanyahu of fuelling instability. Abu Shabab denied receiving Israeli weapons, calling the claims false.

Following the ceasefire crisis in Gaza, The National reported on May 30th and Maghrebi.org cited, that Hamas criticised the US-backed proposal as biased and said it lacked humanitarian direction. The group said the plan favours Israel and fails to ensure a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Hamas also rejected the proposal’s handling of aid access.

However, according to the Middle East Eye on June 5th, Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya stated that Hamas did not turn down the US-Tel Aviv ceasefire proposal. He explained that Hamas requested modifications to attain a lasting Gaza ceasefire and remains open to further negotiations.

Additionally, the United States vetoed a UN Security Council resolution calling for an unconditional and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, as reported by the BBC on June 5th. A total of 14 members of the council supported the resolution, which also called for the release of hostages and the removal of aid restrictions.

As cited by Maghrebi.org, the US Ambassador to the UN Dorothy Shea argued the resolution would hinder diplomacy and suggested the resolution fails to condemn Hamas.

BBC, Middle East Eye, The National, Maghrebi.org