Israel Targets Hamas Military Chief Izz al-Din al-Haddad in Gaza Airstrike
On May 15, 2026, Israel conducted a targeted airstrike in Gaza City against Izz al-Din al-Haddad, Hamas’s military chief and alleged mastermind of the October 7 attacks. While Israeli officials announced the operation to dismantle Hamas leadership, conflicting reports exist regarding his death, though medics confirmed at least three fatalities. This significant escalation occurs despite a US-backed ceasefire established in October 2025, highlighting persistent volatility as Israeli forces control 60% of the enclave and peace negotiations remain stalled amidst dire humanitarian conditions.
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Israel says it killed new Hamas military leader Mohammed Odeh in Gaza strike
Israel announced on May 27, 2026, that it killed Mohammed Odeh, the new leader of Hamas' military wing, in airstrikes in Gaza City on May 26. The strike occurred less than two weeks after his predecessor, Izz al-Din al-Haddad, was killed. Family members confirmed Odeh's death but did not verify his leadership role; Hamas has not commented. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz called Odeh 'one of the architects' of the October 7, 2023 attacks and vowed to eliminate all involved. At least three people were killed and 12 injured in the strikes, which took place on the eve of Eid al-Adha. The article also describes the grim humanitarian situation in Gaza, where 90% of the population is displaced and living in tents amid a devastating war.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Three killed in Israeli airstrike targeting new Hamas military chief Mohammed Odeh
Israel carried out airstrikes in Gaza City late Tuesday, killing at least three people and injuring 12, according to hospital officials. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz said in a joint statement that the strikes targeted Mohammed Odeh, the newly appointed leader of Hamas' military wing, whom they described as 'one of the architects' of the October 7, 2023 attacks. The strike occurred on the eve of Eid al-Azha, a major Muslim festival, and less than two weeks after Israel killed the previous Hamas military chief, Izz al-Din al-Haddad. Hamas did not immediately comment. The attack comes amid a fragile ceasefire reached last October, with over 880 Palestinians killed since it took effect. The overall death toll in Gaza since the war began has surpassed 72,700, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Israel Eliminates Izz Al-Din Al-Haddad, Last Architect of Oct 7 Massacre
On May 15, 2026, Israel eliminated Izz Al-Din Al-Haddad, the highest-ranking Hamas commander in Gaza and the last surviving senior architect of the October 7, 2023 massacre. The strike occurred in Gaza City's Rimal neighborhood, targeting a residential building and vehicle, resulting in over six deaths including civilians. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed Al-Haddad as the target, citing his role in planning the attacks and rejecting the October 2025 Gaza Peace Plan. Known as the "Ghost of al-Qassam," Al-Haddad had survived six previous assassination attempts and held a $750,000 bounty. He assumed leadership after Mohammed Sinwar's death in 2025, overseeing military operations and hostage negotiations. Reports indicate he used hostages as human shields, keeping them in his safe houses to deter Israeli strikes. His elimination marks a significant milestone in Israel's campaign against Hamas leadership, removing the final key planner of the initial attacks from the Gaza Strip.
Eurasia ReviewNetanyahu: Most Architects of October 7 Attacks Have Been Killed
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Sunday that Israel is nearing the completion of a primary objective in its Gaza campaign: the elimination of the planners behind the October 7 attacks. This declaration follows confirmation from Israeli forces that Ezzedine Al-Haddad, a senior commander within Hamas, was killed in a recent airstrike. The operation against Al-Haddad is part of Israel's broader and ongoing effort to dismantle the leadership structure of the militant group. Netanyahu's remarks highlight the strategic focus on decapitating Hamas's command chain as a central component of Israel's military response to the initial attacks. The statement underscores the intensity of the current conflict and Israel's determination to achieve specific security goals regarding the individuals responsible for the violence initiated on October 7. The report, sourced from France 24, provides a snapshot of the evolving situation in Gaza, linking tactical military successes, such as the targeted killing of high-value targets, with the overarching political and military narrative presented by the Israeli government.
France 24 - International breaking news, top stories and headlinesImpact of Izz al-Din al-Haddad Assassination on Hamas Operations
Israel's assassination of Izz al-Din al-Haddad, the recently appointed head of Hamas's Qassam Brigades, has dealt a significant symbolic blow to the group but may have limited immediate operational impact due to Hamas's decentralized structure. The strike, which involved heavy munitions in a densely populated area of Gaza City, also killed seven civilians and wounded fifty. Analysts argue that the Qassam Brigades are designed as parallel, self-sufficient units capable of absorbing leadership losses and reorganizing within days. Despite Israeli claims of dismantling Hamas's central command, the group maintains a deep bench of cadres and strict succession protocols. Al-Haddad had previously utilized a recent ceasefire period to rebuild tunnels and combat formations. His death raises critical questions about the future of the fragile ceasefire and the next steps for Hamas's military leadership, though spokespersons affirm that resistance operations will continue uninterrupted.
Al Jazeera – Breaking News, World News and Video from Al JazeeraIsraeli Strikes Kill Four in Gaza Amid Stalled Ceasefire Talks
Israeli military strikes in the Gaza Strip resulted in the deaths of at least four Palestinians on Sunday, according to local health officials. In the southern city of Khan Younis, one individual was killed near a police post; the Israeli military stated this target was a militant posing an immediate threat. Separately, in central Gaza near Al-Aqsa Hospital in Deir Al-Balah, an airstrike on a community kitchen killed at least three people, with no immediate comment from Israeli forces. These incidents occur as Israel and Hamas remain deadlocked in indirect negotiations regarding a U.S.-backed post-war plan proposed by President Donald Trump. Violence has persisted despite a ceasefire initiated in October, with approximately 870 Palestinians and four Israeli soldiers killed in subsequent clashes. The escalation follows Israel's redirection of military focus back to Gaza after halting joint operations with the U.S. in Iran. Additionally, Hamas recently confirmed the death of its armed wing chief in Gaza City, Izz al-Din al-Haddad, following a precise Israeli strike, though it did not threaten immediate revenge.
The Straits Times World NewsHamas Gaza Military Chief Killed After Breaking Security Protocols
Izz ad-Din al-Haddad, the Hamas military chief in Gaza, was killed by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) after violating his own strict operational security rules. According to security sources, Haddad had been hiding in Gaza's complex tunnel network for months but began emerging into buildings and streets shortly before a US-mediated ceasefire took effect. Officials state that Haddad cracked under pressure, driven by a desire to maintain authority on the street and a longing to see his family. These movements exposed patterns that allowed Israeli intelligence to track and target him. The strike occurred in an apartment in Gaza City’s Rimal neighborhood, where he was surrounded by family members. His death comes amidst efforts by peace envoy Nickolay Mladenov to demilitarize Gaza and transfer control from Hamas. Haddad had previously pushed for the ceasefire to prevent the collapse of Hamas’s military infrastructure as IDF forces surrounded Gaza City. Despite his efforts to rebuild Hamas’s financial and military capabilities, his breach of protocol ultimately led to his elimination by Israeli forces.
JPost.com - The Jerusalem Post - All News from the Middle East, Israel, and the Jewish WorldGaza Mosques Announce Death of Hamas Commander Izz al-Din al-Haddad
Mosques in Gaza City have announced the death of senior Hamas military commander Izz al-Din al-Haddad following Israeli airstrikes in northern Gaza. This announcement comes one day after the Israeli military stated it had targeted the head of Hamas’ armed wing. While residents gathered in various neighborhoods upon hearing the news via loudspeakers, Hamas has not yet issued an official confirmation regarding the commander's fate. The incident has intensified focus on the ongoing conflict and rising tensions within the Gaza Strip. Israeli authorities justify their intensified military campaigns as necessary efforts to dismantle Hamas command structures and militant infrastructure. However, these repeated strikes have exacerbated humanitarian crises, leaving civilians trapped amidst destruction and shortages of essential supplies. Analysts suggest that the potential loss of such a senior figure could significantly influence Hamas's military strategies and operational planning. Meanwhile, international organizations and humanitarian groups are urging immediate de-escalation and restraint. Global diplomatic pressure is mounting on all parties to engage in ceasefire negotiations and facilitate humanitarian relief, as the prolonged conflict continues to cause widespread casualties, displacement, and damage to critical civilian infrastructure including hospitals and homes.
Daily TimesHamas Confirms Death of Military Wing Leader Izz al-Din al-Haddad in Israeli Strike
The Palestinian Hamas movement has officially confirmed the death of Izz al-Din al-Haddad, the leader of its military wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades. In a statement released on Telegram on May 16, 2026, Hamas announced that al-Haddad died as a result of an Israeli airstrike on the Gaza Strip. The group further claimed that his wife and daughter were also killed in the same attack. This confirmation follows an announcement made on May 15 by Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz, who stated that the head of Hamas's military wing had been liquidated. According to Katz, the targeted strike was carried out in the city of Gaza, which serves as the administrative center of the enclave. The event marks a significant development in the ongoing conflict, with both sides acknowledging the elimination of a senior Hamas commander. The report originates from TASS, citing the Hamas statement and previous Israeli official comments.
TASSIsraeli Strike Kills Hamas Military Leader Izz al-Din al-Haddad in Gaza
An Israeli airstrike in Gaza has killed Izz al-Din al-Haddad, the leader of Hamas’ military wing, the Qassam Brigades. The Israeli military identified al-Haddad as one of the last surviving architects of the October 7, 2023, attacks that triggered the ongoing war. Hamas confirmed his death, which also claimed the lives of six others, including his wife and daughter. Al-Haddad had assumed command after the death of Mohammed Sinwar and was accused by Israel of using hostages as human shields. His funeral took place in Gaza City amid a fragile ceasefire that has stalled over disarmament disputes. Since the ceasefire began in October, more than 850 people have been killed in Gaza, bringing the total war toll to over 72,700. Concurrently, violence escalated in the occupied West Bank, where Israeli troops killed a Palestinian man in Jenin and a teenager in Nablus. Additionally, settlers attacked a mosque in Jibiya, drawing condemnation from Palestinian authorities and the Israeli military. This development marks a significant escalation despite ongoing diplomatic efforts to maintain the truce.
WBUR NewsHamas Confirms Killing of Qassam Brigades Leader in Israeli Strike
Hamas has confirmed the death of Izz al-Din al-Haddad, the commander of its military wing, the Qassam Brigades, following an Israeli air strike in Gaza City on May 15, 2026. The attack, which targeted a vehicle in the Remal neighborhood, also killed al-Haddad’s wife, daughter, and four other civilians, while wounding dozens more. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz claimed responsibility, identifying al-Haddad as a key architect of the October 7, 2023 attacks. Hamas condemned the strike as a treacherous assassination and a violation of the ongoing ceasefire agreement, accusing Israel of disregarding international law. The incident has heightened tensions, with other Palestinian factions like the Mujahideen Movement vowing continued resistance. According to the Gaza Health Ministry, the death toll from Israeli attacks since the ceasefire began in October 2025 has reached 870. This event marks a significant escalation, following the earlier killing of senior commander Raed Saad in December 2025, and underscores the fragility of the current truce despite diplomatic efforts.
Al Jazeera – Breaking News, World News and Video from Al JazeeraIsrael Kills Hamas Military Chief in Gaza Despite Ceasefire
Israel’s military announced the killing of Izz al-Din al-Haddad, the chief of Hamas’ military wing, in an airstrike on Gaza City. This marks the most senior Hamas official eliminated by Israel since a US-backed ceasefire agreement was established in October. A senior Hamas official and spokesperson Hazem Qassem confirmed Haddad's death. A joint funeral was held for Haddad, his wife, and their 19-year-old daughter at Al Aqsa Martyrs Mosque, though the specific circumstances of their deaths remain unclear. The strike occurred amidst ongoing violence, with local doctors reporting seven Palestinian deaths from Israeli attacks on Friday alone. Since the October ceasefire began, approximately 850 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli strikes, while four Israeli soldiers have died in militant attacks. Despite the truce intended to halt fighting, Israel has continued carrying out strikes in the region. The incident highlights the fragility of the ceasefire and the escalating tensions, as casualties mount on both sides without a clear resolution to the conflict.
News - South China Morning PostIsrael Claims Killing of Hamas Leader Izz al-Din al-Haddad, 'Last Architect' of Oct 7 Attacks
Israel announced the killing of Izz al-Din al-Haddad, the chief of Hamas’s military wing in Gaza and described as the last surviving architect of the October 7, 2023 attacks. The airstrike occurred in Gaza City amid ongoing hostilities, despite a fragile US-backed ceasefire established in October 2025. While Hamas has not officially confirmed the death, senior officials acknowledged it to Reuters, and mosques in Gaza announced his martyrdom. Haddad, who succeeded Mohammad Sinwar in May 2025, was accused by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz of planning the attacks that killed 1,200 Israelis. The strike also killed six others, including Haddad’s wife and daughter. The incident highlights the continued volatility in the region, with over 850 Palestinians killed since the ceasefire began. Meanwhile, indirect negotiations for a post-war arrangement, linked to a proposal by US President Donald Trump, remain stalled as Israel redirects military focus back to Gaza following operations against Iran.
The Indian ExpressIDF Confirms Assassination of Hamas Military Chief Izz al-Din al-Haddad in Gaza
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) officially confirmed on May 16, 2026, the assassination of Izz al-Din al-Haddad, the head of Hamas's military wing in the Gaza Strip. The IDF described the operation as a significant achievement involving the Southern Command, IDF intelligence, the Israeli Air Force, and the Israel Security Agency (ISA). According to the military statement, al-Haddad was a key perpetrator of the October 7 attacks and had assumed leadership after the death of Muhammad Sinwar. He was reportedly working to rebuild Hamas's military capabilities and plan further attacks against Israeli civilians and soldiers. The confirmation highlights ongoing high-intensity conflict in the region, occurring alongside broader geopolitical tensions, including referenced operations involving Iran and ceasefire extensions with Lebanon. The article emphasizes the strategic importance of removing al-Haddad from the command structure of Hamas within the enclave.
Sputnik News - World News, Breaking News & Top StorieIDF Confirms Assassination of Hamas Military Chief in Gaza
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) officially confirmed on Saturday, May 16, 2026, the assassination of Izz al-Din al-Haddad, the head of Hamas's military wing in the Gaza Strip. The IDF described the operation as a significant achievement involving the Southern Command, IDF intelligence, the Israeli Air Force, and the Israel Security Agency (ISA). According to the military statement, al-Haddad was a chief perpetrator of the October 7th massacre and had assumed leadership after the death of Muhammad Sinwar. He was reportedly working to rebuild Hamas's military capabilities and plan attacks against Israeli civilians and personnel. The confirmation comes amidst broader regional tensions, including references to ongoing conflicts with Iran and ceasefire extensions with Lebanon. The IDF highlighted that al-Haddad's name was frequently mentioned by returned hostages, underscoring his role in the conflict. This event marks a major escalation and operational success for Israeli forces in their campaign against Hamas leadership within the enclave.
Sputnik News - World News, Breaking News & Top StorieIsrael Kills Hamas Commander Izz al-Din al-Haddad in Gaza Airstrike
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced the killing of Izz al-Din al-Haddad, a top Hamas military commander, in an airstrike in Gaza. Al-Haddad, known as 'the Ghost,' was a key architect of the October 7, 2023 attacks and assumed leadership of Hamas's military wing after Mohammad Sinwar's assassination in May 2025. The IDF stated he managed the hostage captivity system and used hostages as human shields. While Hamas has not officially confirmed his death, an unidentified official cited by Reuters verified the killing. A joint funeral for Al-Haddad, his wife, and daughter took place in central Gaza. This incident marks the most senior Hamas casualty since a US-backed ceasefire agreement. The strike occurred amidst escalated Israeli attacks and stalled indirect negotiations regarding President Donald Trump's post-war plan for Gaza. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz highlighted Al-Haddad's responsibility for the murder and abduction of Israeli civilians and soldiers. The conflict continues as Israel claims Hamas is tightening its grip on the territory.
India Today | Latest StoriesIsrael Confirms Killing of Hamas Military Chief in Gaza Air Strike
Israel’s military announced the killing of Izz al-Din al-Haddad, the chief of Hamas’ military wing in Gaza, in an air strike conducted the previous day. This marks the most senior Hamas official eliminated by Israel since the October U.S.-backed ceasefire agreement. A senior Hamas official anonymously confirmed Haddad’s death, though the group has not made a public announcement. A joint funeral for Haddad, his wife, and daughter took place at Al Aqsa Martyrs mosque in central Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz identified Haddad as a key architect of the October 7, 2023 attacks and accused him of responsibility for numerous casualties among Israeli civilians and soldiers. Known as 'the Ghost,' Haddad had survived multiple prior assassination attempts and had served as a commander since the 1980s. The strike occurs amidst stalled indirect talks regarding a post-war plan for Gaza and follows an escalation in Israeli attacks on the territory after halting joint operations with the U.S. in Iran.
Cyprus MailIsrael Claims Killing of Hamas Armed Wing Chief in Gaza Strike
Israel announced on Saturday that it successfully killed Ezzedine Al-Haddad, the chief of Hamas's armed wing, during an airstrike conducted in Gaza the previous day. The Israeli military identified Al-Haddad as a significant figure within the organization, specifically describing him as a key architect behind the October 7 attacks. This development marks a notable escalation in the ongoing conflict, targeting high-level leadership within Hamas. The report, sourced from France 24, highlights Israel's continued efforts to dismantle the command structure of Hamas in response to the recent hostilities. The strike underscores the intensity of military operations in the Gaza Strip as Israel pursues individuals it holds responsible for planning and executing major attacks against its territory. The confirmation of Al-Haddad's death serves as a critical update in the broader narrative of the regional conflict, reflecting the strategic priorities of the Israeli defense forces in neutralizing perceived threats and leadership figures associated with militant activities in the area.
France 24 - International breaking news, top stories and headlinesIsrael Claims Killing of Hamas Military Wing Leader in Gaza Strike
The Israeli military announced on Saturday that it successfully killed Ezzedine Al-Haddad, the head of Hamas's military wing, during an airstrike conducted in Gaza the previous day. This development marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict, targeting high-level leadership within the militant group. According to a source from Hamas, the attack also resulted in the deaths of Al-Haddad's wife and daughter, highlighting the severe collateral impact of the strike. The confirmation of Al-Haddad's death by Israeli forces underscores their continued efforts to dismantle Hamas's command structure through targeted operations. While the Israeli military focused on the elimination of the military leader, the report from Hamas emphasizes the familial casualties, providing a contrasting perspective on the human cost of the operation. This event is part of the broader hostilities between Israel and Hamas, with implications for regional stability and future military engagements in the Gaza Strip. The information is sourced from France 24, reflecting international coverage of the incident.
France 24 - International breaking news, top stories and headlinesIsrael Kills Hamas Military Wing Leader in Gaza Strike
An Israeli airstrike conducted in Gaza has resulted in the death of the chief of Hamas's military wing, identified in accompanying imagery as Izz al-Din al-Haddad. This incident marks the killing of the most senior official from the Palestinian militant group by Israeli forces since the implementation of a U.S.-backed ceasefire agreement in October, which was intended to halt ongoing fighting. The strike represents a significant escalation and breach of the truce conditions established months prior. Mourners in Gaza City were observed carrying images of the deceased commander during funeral proceedings on May 16, 2026. The event underscores the fragility of the ceasefire and the continued high tensions between Israel and Hamas. As the highest-ranking Hamas military figure eliminated since the truce began, this assassination is likely to have substantial implications for regional stability and the future of peace negotiations. The report highlights the persistent volatility in the region despite diplomatic efforts to maintain a cessation of hostilities.
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