### Netanyahu Faces Backlash for Arming Gaza Militias to Counter Hamas

In a controversial move to counter Hamas in Gaza, Israel is reportedly arming local militias within the besieged enclave. This covert operation has sparked significant criticism from opposition politicians who warn it could compromise national security. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the plan, describing it as a strategic initiative advised by security experts.

In a video posted on social media, Netanyahu stated that Israel had activated clans within Gaza that oppose Hamas. He referred to the move as "a good thing," emphasizing that it was conducted on the recommendation of Israel's security establishment.

The operation came to light when former defense minister Avigdor Liberman revealed on Israel's Ch. 12 News that Israel is distributing rifles to extremist groups in Gaza. Liberman heavily criticized the plan, labeling it as "complete madness" and drawing parallels between the armed groups and ISIS. He expressed concerns on Israel's Army Radio, stating, "No one can guarantee that these weapons will not be directed towards Israel." This sentiment was echoed by an official speaking to CNN.

Netanyahu’s office issued a subsequent statement asserting, "Israel is acting to defeat Hamas in various ways upon the recommendation of the heads of the security establishment." However, sources told CNN that the ongoing operation did not receive the usual approval from the security cabinet, a forum typically used for major policy decisions. Key members of Netanyahu's far-right coalition might have vetoed the initiative.

Hamas quickly responded, condemning the operation as destabilizing. In a statement, the group claimed, "The Israeli occupation army is arming criminal gangs in the Gaza Strip with the aim of creating a state of insecurity and social chaos." One of the armed groups identified as receiving weapons from Israel is led by Yasser Abu Shabab, who controls areas in eastern Rafah. While Abu Shabab denied receiving such support, Hamas accused him of being a "traitor."

Netanyahu's decision has drawn severe criticism from opposition politicians. They argue that this is another short-sighted strategy, much like Netanyahu’s past policy of funneling millions of dollars from Qatar to Gaza, which they say strengthened Hamas. Opposition leader Yair Lapid remarked on social media, "After Netanyahu finished handing over millions of dollars to Hamas, he moved on to supplying weapons to groups in Gaza affiliated with ISIS - all improvised, with no strategic planning, and all leading to more disasters."

The future governance of Gaza remains unclear as Netanyahu has not provided detailed plans for a post-Hamas era in the territory. Despite nearly 20 months of conflict, Israel has been unable to completely dislodge Hamas, a group widely recognized as a terrorist organization by Israel, the United States, and the European Union.

Yair Golan, the head of the left-wing Democrats party, also voiced his concerns. Golan criticized Netanyahu’s lack of a strategic approach, saying, "Instead of bringing about a deal, making arrangements with the moderate Sunni axis, and returning the hostages and security to Israeli citizens, he is creating a new ticking bomb in Gaza."

Tensions continue to escalate as the controversial plan unfolds, with fears mounting over the potential for these armed factions to turn their weapons against Israel, inflaming an already volatile situation in the region.