Netanyahu took refuge in arming ISIS-linked groups in Gaza.
, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has confirmed in a controversial move that he has armed armed groups in Gaza, including one linked to ISIS, to counter Hamas.
Netanyahu made the remarks in a video on the social media platform X a day after former Israeli Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman said in an interview that Netanyahu’s cabinet had armed a group linked to ISIS.
Lieberman revealed on Wednesday in an interview with Israel’s Channel 12 and Radio Kan Bet that Netanyahu had ordered the transfer of weapons to criminal groups in Gaza, including a group linked to Yasser Abu Shabab (an Israeli mercenary).
He said the group is linked to ISIS. Lieberman stressed that the decision was made without the approval of Israel’s security cabinet and that even the IDF chief of staff may not be aware of the details.
In response, Netanyahu, without denying the accusations, announced that Israel, on the advice of security officials, had “activated” “powerful tribes” opposed to Hamas in Gaza in order, he said, to save the lives of Israeli soldiers.