Israeli-Backed Abu Shabab Group Admits, Then Denies Attack on Gaza’s Nasser Hospital

Gaza (Quds News Network)- An armed Israeli-backed group led by Yasser Abu Shabab admitted to launching a violent armed attack on Nasser Medical Complex in Khan Younis, one of the few remaining hospitals in southern Gaza. Hours later, the group deleted the statement and issued a complete denial.

In the now-deleted statement, the group—which includes convicted drug traffickers and former ISIS affiliates, claimed responsibility for the assault. They said they were pursuing members of the Sahm Unit, a security team working to stop aid theft in Gaza.

But the group quickly backtracked. In a second statement, they denied all involvement, saying: “We strongly confirm that we have never attacked any hospital or medical facility during our operations.”

Observers slammed the denial. Many accused the group of trying to erase evidence of a crime after public backlash.

The attackers opened heavy fire on Nasser Hospital two days ago. Patients and medical staff ran for cover. The attack appeared aimed at spreading chaos and fear inside the already overwhelmed hospital.

Israeli media had revealed that the group acts under direct orders from the Israeli army, part of a broader strategy to destroy Gaza’s infrastructure during the genocide that began in October 2023. Netanyahu also admitted creating and financing Abu Shabab’s group as part of his efforts to end the resistance in Gaza.

The assault on Nasser Hospital follows widespread destruction of Gaza’s health system by Israeli airstrikes and siege. It triggered intense condemnation from health officials and civilians alike.

The Barbakh family issued a strong statement condemning the attack, distancing itself from the perpetrators (members of Abu Shabab’s group who belong to the family) and demanding full accountability.

“This act does not represent us. We reject any violence targeting vital health facilities,” the statement read.