Israeli security chiefs split over post-ceasefire fate of Bedouin Gaza clans

Armed Bedouin clans in Gaza have fought Hamas and, since the ceasefire, discreetly aided Israeli security forces by securing areas west of the Yellow Line and locating weapons. Within Israel’s security establishment, opinions diverge on their future: some officials, with U.S. backing, want the clans disarmed after the war and returned to Palestinian territory, while others warn against eliminating their leverage and prefer keeping some clans under IDF oversight to shield them and maintain pressure on Hamas. There is currently no plan to move the clans into Israeli territory, and the issue remains a political minefield with concerns they could revert to smuggling if weapons are removed.