# Israeli military use of local Gaza militias > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/israeli-military-use-of-local-gaza-militias > Updated: 2026-08-29T01:00:00.000Z. Sources: 11. Developments: 2. Reports indicate that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Shin Bet are coordinating with various armed militias and local groups within the Gaza Strip to serve as a “field execution tool” or “operational arm” for military activities. Initial investigations suggest these groups are utilized in high-risk areas to perform tasks that are difficult for the IDF to access. Allegations include the forced evacuation of residents, looting, arson, and the mistreatment of individuals. Israeli security officials have characterized the use of these formations as a “temporary operational necessity,” noting they require continuous military support to function. Subsequent reports indicate an expansion of this strategy, involving the recruitment of local criminal gangs and drug dealers. These groups have reportedly been deployed across several areas, including Beit Hanoun, Shuja'iyya, Deir al-Balah, Khan Yunis, and Rafah. Concerns have been raised regarding the potential for war crimes, with some observers drawing comparisons to the 1982 Sabra and Shatila massacre due to the risk of atrocities against Palestinian civilians. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-29: Israel utilizes local militias for operations in Gaza Israel is reportedly utilizing local criminal gangs and militias in the Gaza Strip as operational arms for the IDF and Shin Bet to conduct operations, raising concerns of potential war crimes. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/israel-utilizes-local-militias-for-operations-in-gaza ### 2026-08-26: Israeli military coordinates with Gaza militias for field operations An investigation reveals that the IDF and Shin Bet are coordinating with armed militias in Gaza to serve as field execution tools, performing tasks in high-risk areas and targeting civilians. 7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/israeli-military-coordinates-with-gaza-militias-for-field-operations --- Cite as: Israeli military use of local Gaza militias. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/israeli-military-use-of-local-gaza-militias