Israeli Airstrikes Kill Senior Hamas Leaders Amid Renewed Gaza Assault
Following the collapse of the ceasefire, Israeli forces launched targeted airstrikes assassinating key Hamas leaders, escalating tensions and raising questions about the future of the Gaza war.
Watan-In a significant escalation reflecting the ongoing Israeli aggression on Gaza, occupation forces launched a series of airstrikes targeting the homes of several Hamas leaders. The attacks led to the assassination of key Palestinian resistance figures, including Issam Al-Da’alis, Mohammed Dawood Al-Jamassi, and Mahmoud Abu Wafah.
This operation followed Israel’s announcement of the end of the ceasefire and the resumption of military actions in Gaza, reinforcing its objective to eliminate Hamas’ leadership and weaken its ability to sustain the fight.
Targeted Assassinations of Hamas Leaders
Issam Al-Da’alis, a member of Hamas’ political bureau and head of the Government Follow-up Committee, was among those assassinated in the airstrikes, along with his children and grandchildren. Aged 59, Al-Da’alis played a key role in Hamas, having held multiple positions in government and the education sector, as well as serving as a political advisor to Ismail Haniyeh. His home had been bombed in previous Israeli offensives in 2012 and 2014, but he remained actively engaged in political and organizational activities until his assassination.
Another prominent figure killed was Mohammed Dawood Al-Jamassi, also known as Abu Ubaida Al-Jamassi, who was responsible for Hamas’ administrative affairs in Gaza City. A veteran member since the movement’s inception, Al-Jamassi was previously arrested multiple times by Israeli forces and sentenced to four years in prison. The airstrike also killed his wife, children, and grandchildren, highlighting the devastating impact of the ongoing aggression on Palestinian families.
Additionally, Mahmoud Abu Wafah, a senior leader in Hamas’ security wing, was also assassinated. He played a pivotal role in security operations and internal coordination within Hamas, making him a prime target for Israel. His death marks another significant blow to the movement, which has lost numerous key figures in recent months as part of Israel’s continued efforts to cripple its leadership structure.
Strategic Motives Behind Israel’s Assault
The timing of this military operation raises questions about Israel’s objectives and future plans, especially since it came shortly after the ceasefire declaration. Analysts believe that Israel aims to impose new realities on the ground by eliminating Hamas leaders, but historical precedent suggests that such tactics only lead to further escalation and greater unity among resistance factions.
Meanwhile, Palestinian resistance leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the fight, declaring that these assassinations will not deter them and warning that Israel will pay the price for its crimes against civilians and political leaders.
What’s Next for Gaza?
The ongoing Israeli bombardment and intensifying targeted assassinations signal a new phase of confrontation—one that could be even bloodier than previous escalations. With tightened blockades and extensive destruction across Gaza, Palestinian civilians continue to bear the brunt of the aggression.
The key question remains: Will Israel achieve its objectives through this strategy, or will Hamas once again regroup, adapt, and sustain its resistance?
