Israel Kills Senior Hamas Military Leader Haddad in Gaza Strike

The Israeli military confirmed Saturday that a precise airstrike in Gaza City on Friday killed Izz al-Din al-Haddad, a high-ranking commander in Hamas's military wing. This operation marks the most significant elimination of a Palestinian militant leader since the U.S.-brokered ceasefire in October, an agreement Israel has continued to disregard with ongoing strikes. Hamas confirmed Haddad's death, stating he was a central figure in directing combat operations, and that his wife and 19-year-old daughter were also killed in the attack. A joint funeral was held for the family at Al Aqsa Martyrs Mosque in central Gaza. The strike on Haddad follows a pattern of Israeli military actions in Gaza; local medics reported at least two attacks on Friday that killed seven Palestinians, including women and a child. Another Palestinian source indicated Haddad was targeted in an apartment building. Further Israeli airstrikes on Saturday resulted in at least three more deaths. The Israeli military has not yet commented on these specific incidents. This continued escalation underscores the fragility of the ceasefire and the persistent cycle of violence in the region.