"Shadow unit" of Hamas formed three months after capture of Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit
(MENAFN) According to sources, the "shadow unit" of Hamas was formed about three months after the capture of Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit, following multiple Israeli airstrikes on the locations where he was held. This unit was created with the purpose of ensuring Shalit's safety during his captivity. The unit was initially made up of highly skilled operatives with extensive security and military experience. Over time, additional members were recruited from the Qassam Intelligence Service, the Elite Unit, and other combat units. These recruits received specialized training in security, intelligence, and technology, in addition to their military expertise.
Sources revealed that Muhammad al-Deif and Muhammad al-Sinwar, both senior Hamas leaders, were responsible for the formation of the unit after Shalit’s capture. Many of those who served in the unit and helped guard Shalit were from the Khan Yunis camp, the hometown of Deif and Sinwar. Notable members included field commanders Abdul Rahman al-Mubasher, Khaled Abu Bakra, and Muhammad Daoud. Some of these individuals later became martyrs in separate incidents in 2013 and 2021.
Other key figures linked to the unit included Sami al-Hamaida, a resident of Rafah, who was assassinated by Israel in 2008, and Abdullah Labad, a prominent member of the "manufacturing corner" in al-Qassam, who was killed by Israel in 2011 along with his brother Ismail Labad, a key figure involved in weapons manufacturing and smuggling operations from Sinai and beyond.
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