„Keine Gnade für die Hamas“: Die Gaza-Clans kämpfen nach dem Tod von Abu Shabab an der Seite Israels

Submission statement: The article examines the growing anti-Hamas clan militias and armed groups across Gaza following the death of Yasser Abu Shabab.

Even though he died in an internal dispute, these groups say they will continue fighting Hamas and are trying to take advantage of what they see as the organization’s current weakness to expand their control.

The Abu Shabab militia in Rafah is now led by Rassan al-Dheini, who is described as tougher and more aggressive than his predecessor. He openly promises “no mercy” for Hamas and says this moment is the “day after the war,” a time when his fighters can act freely and enforce order.

Several other groups operate in different parts of Gaza.

In Khan Younis, Hossam al-Astal leads a force that openly opposes Hamas and treats its weakening as a chance for new leadership.

In Shejaiya, Rami Halas commands a Fatah-affiliated clan group that has opposed Hamas since 2007 and reportedly receives IDF protection.

In northern Gaza, Ashraf al-Mansi leads the Popular Army–Northern Forces, presenting his campaign as a fight for civilian freedom after Hamas.

In central Gaza, in Deir al-Balah, Shawqi Abu Nasira heads a new faction that calls for direct confrontation with Hamas and praises anyone who resists it.

Together, these militias promote what they call the New Gaza project, an effort supported by Israel to strengthen local groups challenging Hamas rule.

Leaders say they hope to fill the power vacuum and eventually unite under one structure. The article also describes how Abu Shabab’s death stemmed from internal disagreements rather than Hamas action, and how Israel previously tried to protect him from assassination attempts by Hamas.