JERUSALEM — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Thursday that the Israeli government has begun arming certain clans in the Gaza Strip in an effort to counter the militant group Hamas, which has been in conflict with Israel for nearly 20 months. This move is part of a broader strategy to regain control over the coastal enclave.

In a video statement, Netanyahu indicated that empowering these factions, which are opposed to Hamas, could help safeguard the lives of Israeli soldiers engaged in operations within Gaza. He highlighted that strengthening these local forces is essential for Israel’s military objectives.

The announcement follows comments made by Avigdor Lieberman, a right-wing lawmaker and former deputy prime minister, who publicly revealed the details of the initiative. Lieberman criticized the move, suggesting that providing arms to these groups could pose a risk to Israeli troops, particularly as the country intensifies its offensive against Hamas.

In an interview, Lieberman alleged that the government is equipping “criminals and felons associated with Islamic State.” He expressed concerns that such a strategy could backfire, posing a significant threat to Israeli forces instead of bolstering security.

Amidst these developments, media reports have identified one of the primary beneficiaries of this support as a gang led by Yasser Abu Shabab. This group has been linked to accusations of raiding U.N. aid convoys in Gaza, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian crisis resulting from Israel’s supply restrictions.

However, Abu Shabab has attempted to reshape his image, presenting himself as a leader fighting against Hamas and claiming to facilitate food deliveries to citizens in need. He has been seen publicizing images of himself and his militia armed and in combat attire.

Despite the Israeli government’s efforts to coordinate support for these anti-Hamas factions, concerns linger about the potential repercussions of arming groups with questionable backgrounds. As Israel pushes forward with its military strategy, the implications of this approach remain uncertain, especially regarding its effectiveness in reducing Hamas’s influence in Gaza and ensuring the safety of Israeli forces.