The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) carried out a targeted strike on a Hamas operative inside Gaza’s Nasser Hospital compound, intensifying military operations amid the ongoing conflict.
In a statement on X, the IDF confirmed, “A key Hamas terrorist who was operating from within the Nasser Hospital compound in Gaza was precisely struck.” The military emphasized that the attack was based on “extensive intelligence-gathering” and conducted with “precise munitions” to minimize collateral damage.
Accusing Hamas of using civilian sites for military purposes, the IDF stated, “Hamas exploits civilian infrastructure while brutally endangering the Gazan population—cynically using an active hospital as a shelter for planning and executing terrorist attacks in direct violation of international law.”
Separately, the IDF announced the elimination of two senior Hamas commanders:
- Ahmad Salman ‘Awj Shimali, deputy commander of Hamas’ Gaza Brigade, responsible for planning and executing the October 7 attacks.
- Jamil Omar Jamil Wadiya, commander of Hamas’ Shejaiya Battalion, accused of orchestrating assaults on IDF forces.
Meanwhile, US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff placed the blame for continued fighting on Hamas, stating that Israel did not derail ceasefire efforts. Speaking to Fox News, he said, “Hamas is the aggressor here. The United States stands with Israel.” However, Hamas countered, accusing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of abandoning the agreement.
Israeli air and ground operations continued in Beit Hanoun and Rafah, while airstrikes targeted Hezbollah positions in Lebanon. As the conflict deepens, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsens, with UN official Philippe Lazzarini warning of an impending hunger crisis due to limited access to vital aid.
Gaza’s Health Ministry reports 50,021 deaths and 113,274 injuries, while the Gaza Government Media Office claims the toll exceeds 61,700. In Israel, 1,139 people were killed in the October 7 attacks, with over 200 taken hostage.