Khan Younis Clan Says Israeli-Backed Militia Kidnapped Four Civilians

by | Feb 4, 2026 | News

A Palestinian clan in the Khan Younis area of southern Gaza accused an Israeli-backed anti-Hamas militia of kidnapping four of its members, including a 15-year-old boy, over the weekend.

In a statement, the Sha’er clan said the four were abducted while collecting firewood in a designated safe zone, far from any active fighting or military positions. The group denied any connection between the abductees and Hamas.

The alleged kidnappers belong to a militia led by Hossam al-Astal, a former Palestinian Authority security officer who has publicly claimed to receive support from Israel. Astal said Saturday that his fighters captured six Hamas operatives and killed others during an operation near Batn al-Samin, along the Gaza ceasefire line.

Hamas, however, claimed it had ambushed a gang conducting a kidnapping mission on Israel’s behalf in the same area.

The Sha’er clan rejected Astal’s claims, saying they were intended to justify the seizure of civilians. According to the statement, the four were taken to an unknown location, and the family demanded their “immediate and unconditional release.”

The incident highlights growing chaos and competing armed groups operating in parts of southern Gaza amid the ongoing conflict.

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