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In Gaza, Tribal Fighters Stepping into Governance

(Media Line-Jerusalem Post) Waseem Abu Mahadi - As the political vacuum in Gaza left by Hamas's retreat deepens, clan-based militias are stepping into governance roles, mediating disputes and escorting aid convoys in parts of the Strip. Rooted in Bedouin and clan traditions, these kinship systems have long mediated disputes, distributed aid and maintained social order when formal government structures faltered. The war has brought them back to the forefront, operating as de facto municipal authorities in many neighborhoods. A Hamas-free pocket in eastern Rafah is controlled by the clan-based "Popular Forces" of Yasser Abu Shabab. They have a Facebook page with 30,000 followers. The group showcases its activities through frequent online updates. On July 31, it said its fighters "secured and imported dozens of trucks" carrying flour and other supplies. Omar Salim, 22, a student from Rafah, said, "These days, a lot of families are moving into areas controlled by the "Popular Forces" because they feel safer there than in the neighborhoods where Hamas militias are still around." In Deir al-Balah, Ibrahim Ahmed, 36, said, "Israeli forces have largely subdued Hamas, which now clings to a mere handful of weapons, primarily to instill fear among civilians and quash dissent. Hamas's claims about readiness to resist an Israeli takeover of Gaza City are hollow media posturing - a facade for maintaining their waning influence." He added that armed groups like Abu Shabab "navigate freely within Israeli-controlled territories" and avoid conflict with Israeli forces. Meanwhile, Hamas's counterintelligence Sahm unit continues to kill, torture, maim and intimidate Palestinians in Gaza suspected of dissent or collaboration, with the group posting graphic images and videos of its actions on Telegram.
2025-08-17 00:00:00
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