New Palestinian Militias Stepping Up Amid Hamas Resurgence
As the ceasefire in Gaza provides Hamas a chance to regroup, new Palestinian militias are emerging, aiming to establish a different force within the region. Shawqi Abu Nasira, a leader of one of these militias, described the pause in hostilities as a “kiss of life” for Hamas, warning that the organization is taking this opportunity to rebuild its strength.
“Hamas works for Iran,” he remarked. “They may have been weakened, but this ceasefire has allowed them to prepare and equip themselves better.” Abu Nasira expressed gratitude toward former President Trump for his actions against Hamas, including freezing their assets and designating the Muslim Brotherhood as a terrorist group.
Abu Nasira, a former senior officer with the Palestinian Authority who spent 16 years in an Israeli prison, is currently leading a small group of fighters on the eastern side of Gaza’s “yellow line,” which is now under Israeli military control. “I had to flee Hamas. There was no other choice,” he stated.
His shift away from Hamas was fueled by personal tragedy; his only son was killed by the group and his body was publicly displayed. This horrific event solidified his opposition to Hamas.
While Abu Nasira admits his faction is small—with only dozens of fighters—he believes many in Gaza share his sentiments. He emphasized the dire conditions faced by the people struggling with poverty, lack of medical care, and homelessness. “These people do not want Hamas,” he asserted.
The ceasefire has led to a chaotic landscape of various militias and local groups as Hamas’s grip appears to weaken. Although none are as large or capable as Hamas, several factions, such as the Popular Army and Counter-Terrorism Strike Force, are gaining visibility. The alliances within these groups shift frequently, leading to a more fragmented control in Gaza.
Abu Nasira pointed out that many of these groups are in contact and working towards a unified front. “We are coordinating these groups to function as a National Guard for East Gaza,” he explained.
He believes that Palestinians should take the lead in removing Hamas, rather than relying on outside influences. “We can fight them ourselves; we just need more support,” he said, expressing confidence that they could achieve victory in a matter of months.
He also warned that the threat goes beyond Gaza. In his view, Hamas is tied to a larger network, including the Islamic Republic of Iran. “As long as this alliance exists, it poses a threat to the entire civilized world,” he concluded.
Despite the challenges, Abu Nasira and his group are ready to continue their fight for a better future for Gaza and its residents.
