According to Arab sources, several armed anti-Hamas militias are now reportedly operating across different parts of the Gaza Strip as internal opposition to Hamas continues to expand.
The reported deployment is as follows:
* “Popular Army – Northern Forces” operating in northern Gaza, including Beit Hanoun and Beit Lahia, reportedly commanded by Ashraf al-Mansi.
* “Counter Terrorism Strike Force” active in central Gaza City under the command of Hossam al-Astal.
* “Martyr Khalil al-Wazir Battalion” reportedly deployed in southern Gaza City.
* “Free Homeland Forces” operating in central Gaza around Deir al-Balah and the refugee camps, reportedly led by Shawki Abu Nsaira.
* “Popular Defense Forces” active in the Khan Younis area under Rami Khalas.
* “Popular Forces” reportedly operating in Rafah and along the Egyptian border under Ghassan al-Dahini.
Arab reports further claim that following the killing of Abu Shabab, his deputy and field commander Ghassan al-Dahini assumed leadership of the militia operating in Rafah and southern Gaza.