Israeli Military Kills Hamas Military Wing Leader in Gaza Airstrike

Officials said the strike took place on Friday. It targeted the head of the group's armed wing, according to statements from the military. French broadcaster France 24 reported that the strike aimed at Izz al-Din al-Haddad, the leader of Hamas's military wing.

Israeli officials initially said it was unclear whether he had been killed or injured in the attack. No further details on the exact location or timing within Friday were immediately provided. The strike is part of Israel's ongoing military campaign in Gaza.

The conflict has continued for more than 18 months since Hamas's attack on Israel in October 2023.

Officials described the target as the leader of Hamas's military operations. France 24 cited Israeli officials saying the airstrike had been carried out but stopped short of declaring a confirmed kill at the time of its reporting. The outlet noted uncertainty over whether Haddad was killed or merely injured.

It stated directly that the leader had been killed. Israeli forces have conducted repeated operations targeting Hamas leadership and infrastructure since the war began. Hamas's military wing has been responsible for planning and executing attacks against Israel.

Its leader holds a central role in directing armed operations from within Gaza. No immediate reaction from Hamas was detailed in reports of the strike. Palestinian health authorities have not issued statements on casualties from this specific incident.

The development marks another high-profile targeted killing in the long-running campaign against Hamas commanders. Previous strikes have similarly aimed at degrading the group's command structure.