The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) made a swift, accurate airstrike on May 13, releasing more than 50 bombs within 30 seconds. The strike hit a Hamas command centre under a hospital in Khan Yunis, Gaza. The attack killed senior Hamas commander Mohammed Sinwar and operative Muhammad Shabana.
The IDF claimed the centre planned terrorist attacks. The attack was a significant blow to Hamas leadership and highlighted Israel’s high-tech military precision.
Pinpoint Strike Targets Hamas Command Center
The IDF conducted a pinpoint bombing of an Hamas command-and-control bunker under the European Hospital in Khan Yunis. The bunker played a vital role in Hamas’s war efforts. Israel published a 3D drawing to demonstrate how the bombs struck the target with little impact on the hospital above.
The IDF and Shin Bet security agency reported terrorists were taken out while conducting their activities in an area intended to put civilians in harm’s way.
Civilian Protection Measures Adopted
The IDF asserted that it adopted measures to minimize harm to civilians ahead of and during the attack. Nonetheless, Hamas’s Health Ministry claimed 16 deaths and more than 70 wounded as a result of the operation. The attack demonstrates the challenge of fighting militant organizations sheltered within civilian population.
However, Israel is adamant about bringing Hamas to book while attempting to limit collateral damage.
Dramatic Blow to Hamas Leadership
Mohammed Sinwar was a top Hamas military planner and brother of Yahya Sinwar, the recently passed senior Hamas leader in Gaza. His assassination is one of the most important Hamas killings since the fighting began on October 7, 2023.
The IDF emphasized that the attack undermined Hamas’s command-and-control chain and demonstrated the power of Israeli intelligence and air capabilities.
Powerful Message to Hamas Leadership
After the announcement, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz threatened any remaining Hamas leaders that they are next. Specifically, he named Izz al-Din Haddad in Gaza and Khalil al-Hayya overseas as targets. The attack and warning indicate Israel’s intent on decapitating Hamas’s leadership structure.
This targeted attack highlights Israel’s targeted military campaign in the midst of ongoing violence and sends a clear message to Hamas that its command operations will not be tolerated.