Israel's leader says arming "clans in Gaza" to help fight Hamas will save lives. Opposition leaders say the weapons "will eventually be turned against" Israelis.

Critics assail Israel for employing a strategy the U.S. used in World War II, Afghanistan and Iraq.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has confirmed Israel is arming militias in southern Gaza that are opposed to Hamas. Netanyahu admitted to the arrangement after Israeli politician Avigdor Lieberman,