Popular Forces

The Popular Forces is a Palestinian militia that has been active in the Gaza Strip since May 2024, specifically operating in the eastern regions of Rafah and Khan Yunis. The group, which is also known as the Anti-Terror Service, was initially led by Yasser Abu Shabab until his death on December 4, 2025. Following his passing, leadership was claimed by Ghassan Duhine. With a membership of approximately 500-700 men, the Popular Forces have been described as an armed group with alleged links to the Islamic State and backing from Israel.

The group's activities and structure have been the subject of attention, with some characterizing it as a gang or militia. Notably, the Popular Army – Northern Forces, led by Ashraf al-Mansi and operating in the northern Gaza Strip, is also reported to be part of the Popular Forces. The Israeli support for the Popular Forces was publicly revealed in June 2025, although the group had been active for over a year by that point, tracing its beginnings to the onset of the Rafah offensive in May 2024. Through its operations, the Popular Forces has positioned itself as an anti-Hamas entity within the complex landscape of Palestinian activism and militancy.