Fatah-Led Armed Groups Fight Hamas in Gaza as Ben-Gvir, Smotrich Oppose Aid; Smotrich Criticizes Military, Hamas Strength Rebounds

According to reports from Yedioth Ahronoth and Ynet, two armed groups affiliated with Fatah, led by Yasser Khanidek and Rami Khalas, are operating in Gaza against Hamas. These groups are active in northern and southern Gaza, including Gaza City, Khan Yunis, and Shuja'iya, and reportedly receive salaries from the Palestinian Authority while coordinating with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Meanwhile, Israeli political figures Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich opposed the entry of humanitarian aid into northern Gaza. Smotrich publicly accused the Israeli military of failing to implement political directives regarding Gaza, particularly criticizing the management of humanitarian aid, which he claims is reaching Hamas and being used as logistical support. Additionally, retired Major General Yisrael (Isaac) Brick stated that despite Israeli military claims of success in Gaza, Hamas has regained strength to approximately 40,000 fighters positioned in tunnels, returning to its pre-war capacity. Smotrich also criticized the approval by Prime Minister Netanyahu and the Israeli security cabinet of a decision to allow aid into Gaza, arguing it was a mistake because the aid would benefit Hamas.