The infamous Gaza militia leader Yasser Abu Shabab is reported to have been killed on Dec. 4 in the Rafah area of Gaza. in what the Times of Israel described as an “internal clash.” That is, they report that Hamas was not involved, although there are contradictory reports that Hamas was involved.
The Ynet news agency cited a “senior source within the militia,” who said a fight broke out between families and groups within the militia, which deteriorated until shots were fired, at which point Abu Shabab was killed. Ynet later cited an Israeli security official as saying he was beaten to death as part of an argument over collaborating with Israel. Following reports of his death, crowds in Gaza took to the streets in celebration, distributing sweets and firing guns in celebration into the air.
Abu Shabab had gained notoriety as the head of a gang that received arms and air cover from Israel, in order to provoke a civil war within Gaza. The gang adopted the name the “Popular Front,” though they seemed to number only a few dozen. Previously, his gang was known as a leader in the raiding of humanitarian aid. In 2024, Hamas authorities had reportedly captured and tried several of the thieves, and had executed one or more. An internal 2024 UN report cited his gang as “the most influential stakeholders behind the systematic and massive looting of convoys.” Then, when the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation began operating in late May 2025, they reportedly controlled even more aid.
According to Palestine Chronicle, Israel deepened its support for Abu Shabab’s faction during the temporary ceasefire in January 2025 by providing uniforms, tactical gear, weapons, and vehicles. Israeli media later confirmed that members of these militias, including Abu Shabab’s, received direct orders from Israeli officers during operations targeting Hamas and other resistance factions. The Israeli government acknowledged the policy publicly after domestic criticism, framing it as an effort to reduce Israeli military casualties.
Abu Shabab is reported to have given an interview to Makan Radio, though he later denied it. On July 6, both Israel Hayom and France 24 reported that he had said that his armed militia operated “with ease” in areas controlled by the Israeli military. He allegedly suggested that his group was cooperating with the Israeli army, informing them about upcoming operations, and receiving “external support.” In June, it had been revealed that the Shin Bet, the IDF and Netanyahu had armed the group with Kalashnikov rifles.
