Israel Intensifies Assassinations of Hamas Police Officers in Gaza

The Israeli military escalated targeted assassinations in the Gaza Strip over the weekend, with operations specifically aimed at security officers serving under the Hamas-run government. These officials were responsible for various security portfolios, including combating armed groups and individuals accused of collaborating with Israel.

On Sunday, an Israeli drone strike in Deir al-Balah killed Colonel Wael Al-Ladawi, 44, director of Internal Security in central Gaza, and Major Ramez Abu Zureiq, 49. Field sources indicated that Al-Ladawi had recently led a campaign to counter Israeli-backed armed gangs and had overseen the arrest of several alleged collaborators.

This attack followed similar strikes on Saturday. Brigadier General Abdel Nasser Al-Maqadma, 54, director of police in North Gaza Governorate, was killed while riding a bicycle. Another strike critically wounded the officer in charge of Jabalia police in northern Gaza. Lieutenant Colonel Yamen Obeid, 48, also a police officer in Jabalia, died from wounds sustained in a July 14 strike.

Since a ceasefire took effect on October 10, 2025, at least 49 police officers and security personnel have been killed. Gaza's Interior Ministry condemned Israel's actions, accusing it of "persistently targeting the foundations of police work" to sow chaos. The ministry appealed to the international community and mediating countries to pressure Israel to cease these attacks.

In separate incidents on Saturday, Israeli strikes killed seven Palestinians and wounded over 20 across Gaza. One strike hit near Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital, where tents for journalists were located, narrowly missing them but killing a tobacco stand operator and wounding at least 14 others.

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persistently targeting the foundations of police work