Hamas Leader Reportedly Killed in Gaza Air Strike
A senior Hamas political figure, Salah al-Bardaweel, was killed in an Israeli air strike in Khan Younis, southern Gaza, a Hamas official informed the BBC early Sunday.
Details of the Incident
Local sources indicate that the strike resulted in the deaths of al-Bardaweel, a member of Hamas’s political bureau, and his wife.
Israeli Response
Israeli authorities have not yet issued a statement regarding the incident.
Escalation of Hostilities
The Israeli military intensified its operations in Gaza on Tuesday, citing Hamas’s actions as the reason for ending a ceasefire initiated on January 19th. This ceasefire had brought a halt to violence for nearly two months.
Ceasefire Accusations
Hamas refuted Israel’s claims, asserting that Israel had breached the ceasefire agreement. The agreement was initially brokered by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States.
Palestinian Casualties
According to an official from the Hamas-run health ministry, 32 Palestinians have died in the Gaza Strip over the preceding 24 hours in various locations.
Background to the Conflict
The Israeli military initiated its campaign against Hamas following an unprecedented attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023. This attack resulted in approximately 1,200 fatalities and the abduction of 251 hostages.
Gaza Humanitarian Crisis
The Hamas-controlled health ministry reports that over 49,500 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza since the commencement of Israeli operations. Significant damage to residential areas and infrastructure has also been reported throughout the Gaza Strip.