The Israel Defense Force (IDF) announced the elimination of Abd al-Hadi Sabah, a top Hamas commander, in a precise drone strike conducted on Tuesday.
Sabah was identified as a key figure behind the horrific October 7 attack on Kibbutz Nir Oz, where nearly half of the kibbutz’s 400 residents were either killed or taken captive.
The operation, carried out in conjunction with the Israeli Security Agency (ISA), targeted Sabah in Khan Yunis, located in southern Gaza. Despite being in a designated humanitarian area, intelligence revealed that Sabah was using a shelter as a hideout.
The IDF highlighted that Sabah was not only a leader in the Kibbutz Nir Oz infiltration but had also been involved in orchestrating multiple attacks against IDF troops.
The agencies emphasized their ongoing commitment to pursuing all individuals involved in the October 7 massacre. “The IDF and ISA will continue to operate against all of the terrorists who took part in the murderous October 7th Massacre,” the joint statement read.
To minimize civilian casualties, the IDF employed advanced tactics, including precise weapons, intelligence, and aerial surveillance. This approach underscores Israel’s effort to target key figures in Hamas while mitigating collateral damage.
The drone strike occurred against a backdrop of rising tensions. Hamas reportedly fired new rockets into southern Israel on Tuesday, triggering warning sirens and further escalating the conflict.
Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts spearheaded by the Biden administration to broker a ceasefire appear stalled. U.S. officials blame Hamas for derailing progress, with National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby citing their refusal to compromise on critical details.
As the conflict continues, Israel remains resolute in its mission to bring those responsible for the October 7 attacks to justice, reaffirming its stance against terrorism in the region.