A Hamas fighter wanted by Israel died on Monday when Israeli forces raided the home of one of his relatives in the occupied West Bank, Palestinian security officials said. Ali Sweiti, 40, a member of Hamas' armed wing, Ezz el-Deen al-Qassam brigades, was suspected of anti-Israeli attacks. A Hamas website said he had been on the run for eight years.
According to Reuters, the security officials said Sweiti refused to surrender after soldiers surrounded the house in Beit Awwa, near the city of Hebron. A gun battle ensued and an Israeli bulldozer destroyed part of the dwelling. Relatives said Sweiti's body was found under the rubble along with his rifle.
An Israeli army spokesman said soldiers had operated in the area and a gun battle had taken place.
