Abu Obeida, the spokesperson for Hamas's armed wing, has been killed in an aerial attack in Gaza City, according to Israeli reports. Israel's Defence Minister Israel Katz praised the operation, referring to it as a 'flawless execution' by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Israel's Shin Bet security agency.
While Hamas has not confirmed Obeida's death, they reported numerous civilian casualties from the airstrike, which targeted a densely populated residential building in the al-Rimal neighborhood, resulting in at least seven fatalities and over twenty injuries, including children.
This incident comes amidst a surge of aerial strikes on Gaza City ahead of a planned Israeli military offensive. Katz indicated that the campaign would intensify, alluding to the targeting of more Hamas officials.
Details of the strikes revealed that Obeida's location was identified through prior intelligence, allowing the IDF to carry out the operation effectively. Obeida had gained notoriety as a vocal figure representing Hamas, often delivering messages against Israel while draped in a Palestinian scarf.
Eyewitness accounts from local residents describe a scene of chaos and terror, with one barber stating the blasts were frightening, and he couldn't move for an hour following the strikes. Video evidence from the area captured the aftermath, showcasing the desperation as civilians fled and the injured were assisted.
The IDF defended its actions by stating they undertook precautions to minimize civilian casualties, employing precise weapons and gathering extensive intelligence before the attack. However, the humanitarian situation remains dire, with reports indicating over 63,000 Palestinians killed since the onset of the conflict instigated by Hamas's attacks in October 2023.
The international community has expressed concerns over a full military takeover of Gaza City, warning of catastrophic consequences for the civilian population. As preparations for Israeli operations in the area progress, the already strained infrastructure and humanitarian conditions continue to worsen.
