The Israel Defense Forces said a targeted air operation in Gaza City resulted in the death of Ezzedine Al-Haddad, described as a senior figure within Hamas’ armed structure.
In a joint statement issued with Israel’s internal security agency, Shin Bet, the military said the strike was carried out on Friday and was based on intelligence assessments. Officials alleged that Haddad played a key role in Hamas’ military activities and had links to the planning of the October 7 attack on Israel.
Israeli authorities also claimed he was involved in overseeing the holding of Israeli hostages during the ongoing conflict, accusing him of managing locations where captives were kept and remaining close to them as a shield against potential strikes.
Two Hamas officials, however, confirmed that Haddad died after an Israeli airstrike struck a residential apartment and a civilian vehicle in Gaza City.
The incident adds to the list of high-profile figures killed since fighting escalated between Israel and Hamas, amid continued concerns over civilian casualties and damage to residential areas in the densely populated enclave.
