cross-posted from: https://lemmy.ml/post/53043431

Sept. 21, 2026

At least five Israeli-backed Palestinian militias are operating out of compounds in areas under Israeli military control across the Gaza Strip, according to satellite imagery and videos published online. Since the so-called ceasefire went into effect nearly a year ago, these compounds have been upgraded and expanded in size and sophistication, according to a preliminary analysis by Forensic Architecture. Many of these upgrades resemble Israeli military infrastructure, with berms, barracks, fences, and buildings. At least one compound in East Rafah includes new shops, classrooms, and a playground.

Many of the militia leaders who rose to power in collaboration with Israel during the genocide in Gaza are former gang leaders with a history of criminal activity, were associated with jihadi groups, or are former Palestinian Authority security forces that were all sidelined after Hamas gained control of the enclave in 2007.