ISLAMABAD: The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced the killing of Hakham Muhammad Issa Al-Issa, a Hamas co-founder and senior military leader, in an airstrike in Gaza City.
The strike occurred on Friday in the Sabra neighborhood and targeted one of Hamas’ top remaining commanders in Gaza.
Al-Issa headed Hamas’ combat support headquarters and was part of its General Security Council, playing a key role in military buildup and training efforts.
Role in October 7 Attack and Gaza Casualties
The IDF accused Al-Issa of involvement in planning the October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, which caused over 1,200 deaths and more than 250 kidnappings.
Currently, about 50 hostages remain in Gaza, with 28 presumed dead.
According to Gaza’s Ministry of Health, the death toll from ongoing conflict has reached over 56,000, with more than 133,000 injured.
However, Israeli media report the actual fatalities in Gaza may exceed 100,000 since the October 2023 escalation.
Wider Regional Conflict and Israeli Strikes
The violence has extended beyond Gaza, with Israel carrying out strikes in Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and Iran.
In Lebanon alone, over 1,500 people have been killed in more than 15,000 Israeli attacks over the past 20 months.
Israel has also conducted hundreds of attacks in Syria and Yemen, targeting strategic locations such as airports and ports.
Recently, an Israeli drone strike in Lebanon killed two civilians and injured two others, further violating ceasefire agreements.
