IDF Kills Senior Hamas Commander in Gaza Airstrike

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have confirmed the targeted killing of Hakham Muhammad Issa Al-Issa, a senior Hamas military leader and one of the founders of its armed wing, in an airstrike in Gaza City. Issa was a central planner of the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel and oversaw combat support, force build-up, and coordination of aerial and naval assaults for Hamas. The IDF described him as a significant military strategist and one of the last remaining senior Hamas operatives in Gaza, actively involved in rebuilding the group's operational capacity. His death is part of Israel's broader campaign to dismantle Hamas leadership and prevent further attacks, which follows a recent ceasefire with Iran and the killing of other militant leaders. Israel is also prioritizing the recovery of hostages and the dismantling of Hamas' governance in Gaza. The strike highlights the IDF’s intent to hold those involved in the October 7 massacre accountable.