Big news coming out of Gaza today. Hamas has officially confirmed the death of Izz al-Din al-Haddad, the commander-in-chief of its armed wing, the al-Qassam Brigades. 📉
Known by the nickname "Ghost of al-Qassam," al-Haddad was one of the most wanted figures by Israeli intelligence. He had survived several assassination attempts in the past, but a Friday airstrike on Gaza City finally caught up with him.
The atmosphere in Gaza City was heavy on Saturday as hundreds of people gathered for his funeral. The procession started at the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Mosque, where residents carried the bodies of al-Haddad, his wife, and his daughter through the streets, chanting against the strike. 🕊️
On the other side, the Israeli military and Shin Bet didn't waste any time confirming the hit. They've labeled al-Haddad a key planner of the October 7, 2023, attacks on southern Israel. Israeli military chief Eyal Zamir made it clear that this isn't over, stating that the military will "not relent" until everyone involved in those attacks is held accountable. 🛡️
But what does this actually mean for the ground situation? Palestinian political analyst Ahed Ferwana suggests that losing a top commander like al-Haddad could seriously impact the group's field operations. 🧐
Ferwana also pointed out a potentially spicy political angle: the timing. With Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu looking to boost his standing before a possible Knesset dissolution and upcoming elections, some believe the strike was as much about domestic politics as it was about security. 🗳️
Tragically, the violence continues to hit civilians too. Medical sources reported that at least 10 people were killed and 50 others injured in Friday's strikes on an apartment building and a vehicle in the city. 💔
Reference(s):
Hamas confirms death of military wing chief; funeral held in Gaza City
cgtn.com
