Israel has been secretly providing money, weapons, and on-the-ground protection to militant groups in the Gaza Strip as part of its attempts to combat the Hamas resistance movement, Israeli media reported.

According to a Friday report from the Israeli daily newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth, foreign accounts suggest that the militants have received rifles and ammunition from Israel, in addition to logistical support that includes fuel, food, vehicles, and other necessities.

The report said that the support has allowed the militants to function in proximity to locations where Israeli forces are stationed, facilitating their entrenchment near zones controlled by Israel in the territory.

The assistance is estimated to cost tens of millions of shekels, sourced from the budget of the Israeli army.

Yedioth Ahronoth noted that these groups operate independently of formal command systems and are not directly monitored by the Israeli military or Israel’s so-called internal security service, Shin Bet. They are utilized for specific tactical purposes.

The roles reportedly involve locating Hamas fighters in tunnels or among debris close to Israeli positions, along with conducting abductions aimed at minimizing threats to Israeli soldiers.

The militant outfit, under the leadership of Yasser Abu Shabab prior to his death, was highlighted by the newspaper as the sole group conducting its activities so openly, sharing videos that conveyed a sense of confidence and a challenge to Hamas.

The report said the policy has faced backlash in the Israeli-occupied territories, with evaluations suggesting that the militants do not have the necessary organizational strength or public support to present a real threat to Hamas or its military faction.