IDF Targets Hamas Leadership in Gaza: A New Phase in the Ongoing Conflict
IDF Strikes Hamas Leadership
Jerusalem: The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced the elimination of a Hamas counter-intelligence commander during a recent operation in northern Gaza.
Amjad Muhammad Hassan Shaer, who led the counter-intelligence division within Hamas's General Security Apparatus, was reported killed on Wednesday, according to an IDF statement released on Friday.
The Israeli military indicated that this division plays a crucial role in preventing espionage and ensuring the safety of high-ranking Hamas officials, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Additionally, on Thursday, the Israeli Air Force, in collaboration with ground troops, targeted numerous military sites throughout the Gaza Strip.
Reports from Palestine's official news agency WAFA indicated that Israeli airstrikes hit a school in Gaza City that was sheltering displaced individuals, resulting in at least five fatalities and numerous injuries.
These airstrikes coincide with ongoing ground operations by five divisions across the region.
The IDF stated that the 98th Division has intensified its activities in Gaza City.
In a separate incident, Israeli forces targeted an anti-tank missile position in Gaza City after shots were fired at their personnel, although no injuries were reported.
Military operations are actively taking place in northern Gaza, particularly in Beit Hanoun, Jabalia, and the Daraj Tuffah area of Gaza City.
Troops are focused on locating and dismantling tunnel entrances and other terrorist infrastructure.
In conjunction with ground forces, the Israeli Air Force has conducted strikes on various Hamas targets over the last 24 hours, including terrorist cells, tunnel systems, missile launch sites, and weapons depots.
On Thursday, the IDF also killed Hamas operative Muhammad al-‘Amour near Khan Yunis in southern Gaza.
Al-‘Amour was reportedly responsible for managing the goods terminal at the Rafah Crossing, facilitating the smuggling of weapons and military supplies, which significantly contributed to Hamas's military capabilities.
IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir visited the Ground Forces headquarters at Camp Bar-Lev near Kiryat Malakhi on Wednesday, highlighting the critical phase the military is navigating in this multi-front conflict.
Zamir remarked on the unprecedented nature of the current hostilities, stating, "We are engaged in operations across multiple fronts, including Tehran, Sanaa, Beirut, Syria, Jenin, and primarily, the Gaza Strip."
Israel's Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a stern warning to Hamas leaders, stating, "The Sinwar brothers have devastated Gaza. Izz al-Din al-Haddad is turning it into ruins. Hamas leaders abroad are enjoying luxury while refusing to release hostages. If they do not act soon, the consequences will be dire."
The IDF has previously killed Hamas leaders Yahya Sinwar and Mohammed Sinwar in October 2024 and May 2025, respectively. Izz al-Din al-Haddad has led Hamas's Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades since May 2025.
The United States is exploring "alternative options" to secure the release of 50 hostages held by Hamas, as the group appears to be acting without coordination or good faith, according to U.S. Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff.
Witkoff expressed disappointment over Hamas's actions, reaffirming Washington's commitment to achieving peace.
This announcement followed a statement from the Israeli Prime Minister's Office, indicating that negotiators were being recalled for consultations due to Hamas's recent responses.
The Israeli government acknowledged the mediation efforts by Qatar and Egypt, as well as the contributions of envoy Witkoff in seeking a breakthrough in negotiations.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated, "Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff is correct. Hamas is the primary obstacle to a hostage release agreement. Together with our U.S. allies, we are now considering alternative strategies to secure the return of our hostages, dismantle Hamas's terror regime, and establish lasting peace for Israel and the region."
During a state memorial for Revisionist Zionist leader Ze’ev Jabotinsky on Thursday night, Netanyahu reiterated his commitment to achieving all war objectives, including the return of all hostages and the complete defeat of Hamas.
He cautioned, "If Hamas interprets our willingness to negotiate as weakness, they are gravely mistaken. We will not allow them to dictate terms that jeopardize Israel's safety."