Local militias have begun policing the recently reopened Rafah Border Crossing and are contacting families and individuals associated with Hamas in the area, urging them to sever ties with the terror group.
According to Ynet, the Abu Shabab militia—which Israel acknowledges cooperating with—will help maintain order in Gaza while awaiting the arrival of the Gaza Administration Committee. Militia Commander Hussam al-Astal said the group’s goal is to defeat Hamas operatives still operating in violation of the ceasefire.
“Any family that has a son or relative working in Hamas security forces or institutions, including civilian ones, must know that their role has ended,” he said in a statement. “We have decided to decisively defeat Hamas in all arenas, without exception.”
Anyone who continues to cooperate with Hamas, he warned, “will bear responsibility for their arrest or death. This is the final warning. The phase of decisive action is approaching.”
At the same time, Ali Shaat, head of the Gaza administration committee, which has yet to physically enter the Strip, said the reopening of the Rafah crossing “marks the beginning of a path that reconnects what was severed and opens a real window of hope for Palestinians.”
The Gaza Administration Committee has yet to establish a presence inside the Strip, as headquarters have not been set up. Operational logistics still needs to be finalized, and questions remain regarding staffing and budget.
The Fellowship and our generous supporters have been steadfastly praying for shalom—peace— after two years of war. Now we are beginning to see the first efforts taking shape.
