Israel announced on Saturday that it had killed a senior Hamas commander in a strike that also injured two soldiers.
Targeted Strike and Casualties
The Israeli military said the attack targeted Raed Saad, the Hamas official in charge of manufacturing and former head of the group’s operations division. The strike, which occurred west of Gaza City, left four people dead and three wounded, according to reports from Shifa Hospital and Al-Awda hospital.
Ceasefire Violations and Ongoing Conflict
Israel and Hamas have repeatedly accused each other of violating the ceasefire that began on Oct. 10. Palestinian health officials report that Israeli airstrikes and shootings have killed at least 386 Palestinians since the truce. Israel says its recent strikes are retaliation for militant attacks on its soldiers and notes that its troops have fired on Palestinians who approached the “Yellow Line” between the Israeli‑controlled portion of Gaza and the rest of the territory.
Hostage Issues and Future Stages
Israel demands that Palestinian militants return the remains of the final hostage, Ran Gvili, from Gaza. The return of the remains is described as a condition for moving to the second phase of the ceasefire, which envisions ending Hamas rule and rebuilding a demilitarized Gaza under international supervision.
Broader Context
The initial Hamas‑led attack on southern Israel in October 2023 killed about 1,200 people and took 251 hostages. Almost all hostages or their remains have been returned in ceasefires or other deals. Israel’s two‑year campaign in Gaza has killed more than 70,650 Palestinians, roughly half of them women and children, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. Much of Gaza has been destroyed and most of the population of over 2 million has been displaced. Humanitarian aid entry remains below the level set by the ceasefire terms, and Palestinians who lost limbs in the war face shortages of prosthetic limbs and long delays in medical evacuations.
Key Takeaways
- Israel claims it killed Hamas commander Raed Saad in a strike that also wounded soldiers.
- Ceasefire violations have led to at least 386 Palestinian deaths since Oct. 10.
- Israel’s demand for Ran Gvili’s remains is tied to advancing the ceasefire’s next phase.
The strike highlights the fragile nature of the ceasefire and the continued cycle of violence that has left thousands dead and millions displaced.
Morgan J. Carter is a Texas-based journalist covering breaking news, local government, public safety, and community developments across Austin. With more than six years of reporting experience, Morgan focuses on delivering accurate, clear, and timely stories that reflect the fast-moving pulse of the city.
At newsofaustin.com, Morgan reports on everything from severe weather alerts and traffic updates to city council decisions, crime reports, and the issues shaping daily life in Austin. Known for reliable fact-checking and a strong commitment to public-interest journalism, Morgan brings readers the information they need to stay informed and engaged.
When not tracking a developing story, Morgan enjoys exploring Austin’s neighborhoods, attending local events, and connecting with residents to share the voices and experiences that define the community.
