Report Reveals Zionist ‘israeli’-Backed Gang Leader’s Looting of Gaza Aid

According to a report by Quds News Network, Yasser Abu Shabab and his armed groups have resurfaced, presenting themselves as providers of security for aid efforts. Donning uniforms, they assert their role in protecting the scarce humanitarian aid entering the region.

On Sunday, the Israeli authorities permitted a limited convoy of aid trucks to enter the Gaza Strip, after enforcing a complete blockade since March 2. This decision comes amid mounting international pressure and widespread condemnation, as the Palestinian territory confronts the threat of a severe famine.

The report claims that gangs have been intercepting humanitarian aid trucks in eastern Rafah. These groups are reportedly operating under the protection of Israeli forces, allowing for significant looting and disruption of relief efforts in the blockaded region.

The activities of the gangs, reportedly operating in coordination with the Israeli military, have exacerbated humanitarian conditions, especially in regions experiencing acute food shortages.

The report highlighted that Abu Shabab has “set up a fortified base in an area of Rafah controlled by Israel,” frequently targeting and looting aid convoys, particularly in regions such as eastern Rafah and the Karem Abu Salem border crossing.

International media outlets, such as *The Washington Post* and the Israeli newspaper *Haaretz*, have independently verified reports stating that the gangs led by Abu Shabab are linked to Daesh and operate with the protection of Israeli forces.

According to reports based on witness accounts and internal United Nations memos, gangs have allegedly been involved in the looting of aid convoys. These groups were frequently observed near Israeli military positions, yet the occupation forces reportedly did not intervene or prevent the theft.

A senior official in Gaza reported to Haaretz the presence of armed gangs targeting aid convoys entering through the Karem Abu Salem crossing. The official noted witnessing an Israeli tank and a Palestinian armed with a Kalashnikov rifle at a distance of approximately 100 meters (about 328 feet).

Reports have emerged indicating that armed individuals are assaulting drivers and seizing all food supplies unless protection fees are paid.

In a troubling turn of events, Abu Shabab has been observed actively using social media platforms to flaunt his group’s strategic operations. The posts detail incidents where his armed associates reportedly assault aid drivers and extort them for protection fees.

Reports from various media outlets indicate that Israel has been systematically targeting Palestinian police and security officers responsible for overseeing the distribution of aid.

Reports have indicated that while Israel is accused of enabling and facilitating the misappropriation of resources, its messaging attributes the theft of aid to Hamas, thereby diverting blame and obscuring its alleged involvement in creating disorder and food shortages in Gaza.

Approximately 31 humanitarian aid trucks navigated through the main intersection at Salah Adin Street near Deir Al-Balah in the central Gaza Strip on Tuesday. However, the convoy faced an armed assault from the Abu Shabab gangs, who attempted to commandeer the urgently needed supplies.

According to local reports, Palestinian security officers intervened in an attempt to halt the attack. However, Israeli forces launched missiles at the armed groups, resulting in the deaths of six officers who were trying to safeguard the aid.

The Palestinian Civil Society Network has issued a strong condemnation of the raid, emphasizing that the vehicles in question were transporting supplies intended for bakeries located in Gaza City and northern Gaza.

The Gaza Government Media Office announced in a statement that Israel conducted eight airstrikes targeting security personnel assigned to safeguard humanitarian aid.

Reports indicate that occupying forces appear to be systematically facilitating the diversion of aid and medical supplies, preventing these essentials from reaching their intended recipients.

Abu Shabab, with a well-documented background in drug trafficking and ties to extremist factions, commandeered a gas truck in Gaza last year. He ignited the vehicle to obstruct roads, aiming to hinder the delivery of humanitarian aid.

The Israeli authorities have enforced a total blockade on Gaza for a continuous 12 weeks since March 2, halting all humanitarian aid from reaching the area.

Rights organizations have condemned Israel over allegations of employing starvation as a tool of warfare against Palestinians.

The Israeli authorities have intensified their military operations in the Gaza Strip following the collapse of a two-month ceasefire with Hamas in March.

On October 7, 2023, Israel initiated a military operation against Gaza. Reports from the Gaza health ministry indicate that the offensive has resulted in the deaths of at least 53,800 Palestinians, with the majority being women and children.