Israeli media outlets reported Thursday the death of Yasser Abu Shabab, a significant Bedouin tribal leader who headed the most visible anti-Hamas faction in Gaza. Based in the Israeli-controlled sector of Rafah in southern Gaza, Abu Shabab had emerged as a central figure among several small Palestinian groups opposing Hamas throughout the more than two-year conflict.
According to Israel’s public broadcaster Kan, which cited anonymous security sources, Abu Shabab succumbed to unspecified wounds. Israel’s Army Radio initially reported he died at Soroka Medical Center in southern Israel, but the hospital promptly denied his admission, creating confusion around the circumstances of his death. The exact timing and nature of his injuries remain undisclosed.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu previously acknowledged in June that Israel had provided weapons to anti-Hamas clans, though few operational details have been officially confirmed since. Abu Shabab’s group, known as the Popular Forces, consistently denied receiving Israeli backing despite these claims.
Hamas authorities had designated Abu Shabab as a collaborator and issued orders for his capture or elimination. The militant organization declined to comment on reports of his death when contacted by Reuters.
The Popular Forces continued operations in Israeli-held territories even after the US-brokered ceasefire agreement in October. A November 18 video released by the group showed dozens of fighters receiving commands from Abu Shabab’s deputy to conduct security operations against Hamas elements in Rafah.
Israeli government spokespersons declined to confirm the reports, while Abu Shabab’s organization had not issued any official statement regarding his status on their social media channels at the time of reporting.