[67400] Internal struggle in Gaza: Armed militia claims takeover of Beit Lahia

Tension in the northern Strip: Local militias challenge Hamas

On May 19, 2026, Telegram channels reported an unusual development in the northern Gaza Strip, in which local elements are challenging Hamas's control in the area. According to Abu Ali Express, the "Popular Forces Militia of the Northern Strip" under the command of Ashraf al-Mansi declared that "We have captured Beit Lahia from Hamas".

In an additional report by Hananel Aviv, known for his sharp criticism of Hamas and various political power brokers, it is noted that the militia members were documented "walking freely throughout the neighborhood and handing out cigarettes to passersby". This action was described as an attempt at "winning hearts and minds" among the population, given the shortage of basic luxury goods in the Strip, alongside public calls by the gunmen for "death to Hamas."

According to Abu Ali Express, the militia claims control over territory located beyond the "Yellow Line," an area that according to the Trump plan was supposed to be under Hamas control. The videos indicate that these are built-up areas that have not yet been destroyed or leveled by IDF engineering forces.

While the militia is publishing extensive documentation of its members armed in the streets of Beit Lahia, channels identified with Hamas are maintaining a "deafening silence" and there is no official reference to the claims regarding the loss of territory or the internal unrest attributed to al-Mansi and his men.