Israel Confirms Killing of Hamas Military Chief in Gaza Strike Amid Ceasefire Tensions
Israel has confirmed that it killed Hamas’ most senior military commander in a targeted airstrike on Gaza City, carried out despite an ongoing US-brokered ceasefire agreement.
In a joint statement, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the Israeli Security Agency said Izz al-Din al-Haddad, head of Hamas’ military wing, was eliminated in what they described as a “precise strike” on Friday. Israeli authorities identified him as a central figure in Hamas’ armed operations and accused him of involvement in planning the October 7, 2023 attacks on Israel.
Gaza emergency services reported that the strike hit residential areas in Gaza City, killing at least seven people and injuring more than 50 others, who were transported to Al-Shifa Hospital for treatment. Local authorities also confirmed significant damage to civilian infrastructure following the attack.
Hamas later confirmed al-Haddad’s death, describing him as one of its most senior battlefield commanders. Funeral gatherings were reported in Gaza, with images circulating showing crowds assembling during the procession.
The Israeli military said the operation forms part of its continuing campaign against Hamas leadership, insisting that it will persist in targeting individuals it holds responsible for attacks against Israeli civilians and security forces. The strike underscores persistent volatility in the enclave, despite the formal ceasefire arrangement in place.
Palestinian health authorities said the death toll in Gaza has continued to rise since the ceasefire was announced, while Israel maintains that its operations are directed at neutralising imminent threats and preventing further attacks.
The latest development heightens concerns over the stability of the truce and raises questions about the prospects for sustained de-escalation in the region.
