Netanyahu confirms Israel arming clans opposed to Hamas in Gaza2 days ago Share Save Sebastian Usher Middle East regional editor Reporting from Jerusalem Share SaveAFP via Getty ImagesIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has confirmed that Israel is arming clans in Gaza that he says are opposed to Hamas. His comments came after Israeli media reports quoted defence sources as saying Netanyahu had authorised giving weapons to one particular group in the south of Gaza. Several Israeli politicians have accused Netanyahu of endangering Israeli security. What the Israeli prime minister is referring to are the reports that Israel under his authorisation has been supplying weapons to a clan in Gaza led by a man called Yasser Abu Shabab. The group, which some see as a militia or a criminal gang, has presented itself as an opposition force to Hamas.