In a significant development, an Israeli airstrike in Gaza has claimed the life of a key figure within Hamas’ military wing, Izz al-Din al-Haddad. According to the Israeli military, al-Haddad was a prominent architect behind the deadly attacks on October 7, 2023, which marked a major escalation in the ongoing conflict.
Al-Haddad had risen to prominence following the death of Mohammed Sinwar, taking command of Hamas’ military operations. His leadership role in orchestrating the October attacks, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people in Israel and saw more than 250 individuals taken hostage, made him a significant target for Israeli forces.
The repercussions of these events continue to be felt keenly. Israel’s retaliatory measures have led to extensive casualties in Gaza, with more than 72,700 people reported dead, according to figures from the Gaza Health Ministry. This ministry, though part of Hamas’ governance in Gaza, is recognized internationally for its detailed and reliable record-keeping by medical professionals.
The assassination of al-Haddad comes amid a tenuous ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, beset by ongoing tensions and unresolved issues, such as the disarmament of Hamas. Since the ceasefire’s initiation in October, hostilities have persisted, with daily exchanges of fire resulting in the deaths of over 850 people, as reported by Gaza’s Health Ministry.
Al-Haddad’s killing comes as the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas remains fragile as key issues like the disarmament of Hamas stall the deal’s progress. Despite the ceasefire, which went into effect in October, Gaza has seen near-daily Israeli fire with more than 850 people being killed since then, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry.
Al-Haddad was the latest Hamas commander to be killed by Israel. Israel said he had assumed the role after his predecessor, Mohammed Sinwar, was killed. The army said al-Haddad had surrounded himself with Israeli hostages during the war as a shield against an attack.
Al-Haddad’s family confirmed to The Associated Press his death in Friday’s strike along with six other people.
His funeral was held Saturday in Gaza City. His body was wrapped in Hamas and Palestinians flags as it was carried by mourners.
He joined Hamas when it was established in the 1980s, and was a member of the Qassam Brigades’ Majd section, which was tasked to go after collaborators with Israel. He was also a member of Hamas’ Military Council, the highest group of commanders that played a key role in the attacks that sparked the war.
Israel’s chief of staff for the army called his killing a significant operation, and said Israel would continue pursuing its enemies to hold them accountable.
Since the shaky ceasefire was reached, both Israel and Hamas have traded accusations of violations. Israel has targeted Hamas members inside the coastal enclave, the last of whom was the son of Hamas’ lead negotiator, Khalil al-Hayya.
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