ALBAWABA - The Israeli military said it hit Gaza on Sunday, targeting a key official in Hamas’s military wing, continuing its operations in the enclave.
The target was Izz al-Din al-Haddad, who Israel said was one of the most senior commanders in the Qassam Brigades and a “central figure” connected to the October 7, 2023 attack, according to an official statement.
The army said the action was carried out under the command of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz, adding that al-Haddad had rejected a proposal put up by U.S. President Donald Trump to disarm Hamas.
Israeli media later quoted Katz as confirming the murder of al-Haddad, and that the operation used what officials called precise intelligence on his activities. According to reports, the incident occurred in the Al-Rimal district of Gaza City.
Israeli newspapers claimed military officials as saying the operation was a major step, as al-Haddad was thought to be among the most senior remaining commanders of Hamas inside Gaza.
If confirmed, his death would be a severe blow to the group’s military leadership, with Israeli officials indicating that majority of the members of Hamas’s military council had now been targeted.
The strike comes amid continuing escalating tensions in Gaza, with Israel continuing to squeeze Hamas leadership, while talks and international appeals for de-escalation continue alongside.
