On June 5, 2025, Avigdor Lieberman, head of Israel’s conservative Yisrael Beiteinu party and former Defense Minister, claimed the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are supplying weapons to ISIS-linked groups in Gaza to fight Hamas.
This allegation, reported by Israel National News, has ignited a firestorm of controversy. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed arming clans opposing Hamas, but the specifics of ISIS affiliations remain disputed.
Consequently, this IDF arming ISIS-linked groups policy raises ethical and security concerns.
Background and Lieberman’s Allegations
In an interview with Kan Bet public radio, Lieberman suggested that there is a policy of providing weapons to groups associated with Yasser Abu Shabab, a notorious figure in Rafah with a criminal background. Lieberman asserted:
“The Israeli government is sending weapons to a group of criminals and offenders who identify with ISIS, at the instruction of the Prime Minister,”
This strategy, he argues, mirrors past actions of propping up Hamas against the Palestinian Authority, aiming to weaken Hamas’s control in Gaza.
Netanyahu’s Confirmation and Official Response
Netanyahu’s office initially replied, as reported by Haaretz, “Israel is employing various strategies to combat Hamas, based on the guidance of all leaders of the security establishment.”
Later, Netanyahu confirmed arming clans opposing Hamas, stating,
“On the advice of security officials, we activated clans in Gaza that oppose Hamas. This is only good and saves the lives of IDF soldiers.”
This confirmation, detailed in The Jerusalem Post, aligns with Lieberman’s claims but avoids explicit mention of ISIS links, creating ambiguity.
Consequently, the policy’s execution and its alignment with national security goals are under scrutiny.
Details of the Controversy
The debate revolves around the alleged provision of arms to groups linked to ISIS, a claim made by Lieberman that carries serious consequences. According to The Jewish Chronicle:
“Lieberman’s comments have reignited debates over Israel’s tactics in Gaza, with some arguing that arming any group, especially one with ISIS affiliations, could backfire spectacularly. The potential for these weapons to be turned against Israel is a major concern.”
Similarly, Haaretz provides a detailed account:
“Security sources have criticized Lieberman’s public disclosure as a ‘dangerous leak,’ arguing it harms soldiers and puts hostages at risk. The Shin Bet refused to comment, but the ethical implications of arming groups with terrorist affiliations are undeniable.”
The extent of ISIS affiliation remains debated. The Jerusalem Post highlights security officials’ concerns, describing Lieberman’s actions as “cynicism and populism for self-promotion and narrow political ambitions.”
Implications and Ethical Concerns
The IDF’s alleged arming of ISIS-linked groups raises profound ethical and security concerns because it risks empowering terrorist elements, potentially destabilizing the region further.
Meanwhile, the strategy aims to save IDF lives by reducing direct confrontation with Hamas. However, the involvement of the SPLC, as suggested by historical parallels, could exacerbate these concerns.
Additionally, the long-term consequences of arming rival groups in a volatile region are uncertain.
Therefore, it fuels debates over Israel’s security policies and their alignment with international norms. In turn, this controversy challenges the balance between short-term gains and long-term stability.
Conclusion on the IDF’s Strategy
Lieberman’s claims of the IDF arming ISIS-linked groups in Gaza, confirmed by Netanyahu’s support for anti-Hamas clans, spark a significant controversy.
This IDF arming ISIS-linked groups policy raises ethical and security concerns, as detailed by The Jewish Chronicle and Haaretz.
Consequently, it stands as a critical moment for Israel’s strategy in Gaza. Thus, the allegations demand a thorough reevaluation of the balance between security and ethics.
