Internal violence among Gaza's local armed groups has intensified, with the recent death of militia leader Abu Shabab, who was reportedly beaten to death due to his cooperation with Israel. Israeli officials believe this incident will further consolidate Hamas' control in Gaza and hinder efforts to establish alternative local leadership for postwar governance. Abu Shabab's militia had received Israeli support during the conflict as part of a strategy to challenge Hamas' authority in Rafah. After the cease-fire, tensions escalated, with Hamas operatives attempting but failing to assassinate Abu Shabab while he was in an area controlled by Israel.