When Gaza militia leader Yasser Abu Shabab was killed last week, few Palestinians mourned his death. After Israel's genocidal war in Gaza began in 2023, Abu Shabab and his Israel-backed Popular Forces group attempted to present themselves as an alternative to Hamas, but Palestinians instead viewed him as a traitor. What did his rise reveal about Israel’s strategy for Gaza?

In this episode:

Muhammad Shehada (@muhammadshehad2), Visiting Fellow, European Council on Foreign Relations

Episode credits:

This episode was produced by Melanie Marich, Noor Wazwaz, and Haleema Shah, with Tracie Hunte, Diana Ferrero, and our guest host Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Kylene Kiang.

Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. This episode was mixed by Rick Rush. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera’s head of audio.

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Who was Israel-backed Gaza militia leader Yasser Abu Shabab?

The Take

Who was Israel-backed Gaza militia leader Yasser Abu Shabab?