Anti Hamas armed groups seek future role under Gaza peace plan

Serious questions are emerging about the many armed groups that have appeared in Gaza in recent months to fight against Hamas. These groups form a complicated mix of family based clans, criminal networks, and newly formed militias. Some have quietly received backing from Israel, something the Israeli prime minister recently acknowledged. Others are believed to be getting covert support from elements within the Palestinian Authority, which governs parts of the West Bank and has long been a political rival to Hamas.

These militias operate separately from one another and focus on their own neighbourhoods within the areas of Gaza now under Israeli control, which accounts for more than half of the territory. However, despite their growing influence on the ground, they are not included in United States President Donald Trump’s proposed peace plan. That plan calls for an International Stabilisation Force and a newly trained Palestinian police force to take responsibility for security in Gaza during the next stage of the agreement.

One of the largest and most visible groups is run by Yasser Abu Shabab. His faction, called the Popular Forces, operates near Rafah in southern Gaza. In a video circulating on social media, his deputy speaks confidently about working alongside the Board of Peace, the international body expected to oversee Gaza under the peace plan. The message seemed to suggest that the militia sees itself playing an official role in Gaza’s future security arrangements.

Another influential figure is Hossam al Astal, who leads the Counter Terrorism Strike Force around Khan Younis. This week, he told Israeli journalists that representatives from the United States had confirmed his fighters would be incorporated into Gaza’s future police force. His claims sparked interest but also scepticism. When asked about it, a United States official declined to confirm any such agreement and said there was nothing to announce at this time.

Earlier in the month, when questioned about similar rumours, Astal smiled and hinted that he had indeed spoken with American officials. He said he would reveal more details soon, adding to speculation about what role these groups expect to play once the fighting ends.

The situation poses difficult questions for the peace plan. The presence of armed groups that operate outside formal structures complicates efforts to establish stable governance and a unified security system. Their ambitions, alliances, and the external support some receive could affect how Gaza is policed and how quickly order can be restored.

As discussions over Gaza’s future intensify, it is clear that these local militias want to secure a place in whatever political or security arrangements come next. Whether they will be allowed to do so remains uncertain.