The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed on Tuesday that they had killed Abd al-Hadi Sabah, the commander of Hamas’ Nukhba Platoon, in a recent drone strike. Sabah was responsible for leading the attack on Kibbutz Nir Oz during the deadly October 7 massacre.
Operation in Khan Younis Successfully Takes Out Key Hamas Figure
The IDF’s statement detailed that Sabah, who had been operating from a shelter in the Khan Younis area of southern Gaza, was eliminated in an intelligence-based operation conducted by the IDF and the Israel Security Agency (ISA). Sabah had played a significant role in the assault on Kibbutz Nir Oz and led numerous attacks against IDF forces during the ongoing war. The IDF pledged to continue targeting those involved in the October 7 massacre.
Shin Bet and IDF Kill Key Figures from Palestinian Islamic Jihad
Earlier on Tuesday, the IDF and Shin Bet confirmed the killing of Anas Muhammad Saadi Masri, the commander of the northern sector rocket unit for Palestinian Islamic Jihad. Masri had been a prominent figure in executing numerous terrorist operations aimed at Israeli civilians and soldiers, and he had been directing rocket fire from northern Gaza since October 7.
Ongoing IDF Operations in Gaza Target Terrorists Involved in October 7 Attack
In related operations, the IDF reported the elimination of 14 Hamas terrorists, six of whom had participated in the October 7 massacre. These efforts were part of the IDF’s continued operations in Gaza, focusing on the areas of Jabalia and Beit Lahia in collaboration with Shin Bet.
Rising Toll of Casualties and International Concerns
The October 7 attack by Hamas killed over 1,200 Israelis and took more than 250 hostages, with around 100 still believed to be in captivity. In response, Israel launched a counteroffensive against Hamas, resulting in more than 45,000 Palestinian casualties. The escalating civilian toll has sparked global concern and calls for a ceasefire.
Conflict Expands with Support from Iran-aligned Forces
The conflict has intensified with additional pressure from Houthi rebels in Yemen and Hezbollah in Lebanon, both backed by Iran. Their increasing offensives against Israel have forced the country to engage in a multi-front war.