Yasser Abu Shabab

Yasser Abu Shabab, a Palestinian in his 30s, led the "Popular Forces" militia in Gaza. He rose to prominence during the 2023 war as his group operated in Israeli-controlled areas near Rafah. Abu Shabab and his militia were backed by Israel as part of a strategy to counter Hamas, but were widely viewed by Palestinians as collaborators. He was killed on December 4, 2025, reportedly while attempting to resolve a dispute. His death is newsworthy because it highlights the failure of Israel's strategy to establish a Palestinian ruling force loyal to the occupation. Abu Shabab's successor, Ghassan al-Duhaini, has pledged to continue the campaign against Hamas. However, Abu Shabab's death signals the end of a 'dark chapter' and the inevitable failure of Israel's plan for Gaza.