Three Senior Hamas Leaders Killed in Israeli Strike in Khan Yunis
September 10, 2024
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In a major operation, the IDF targeted and eliminated three senior Hamas operatives in Khan Yunis, including Samer Abu-Daka, head of Hamas' aerial operations, along with Asama Tabash, head of surveillance and targeting in Hamas’ military intelligence, and Ayman Mabhuh, a senior operative directly involved in the October 7 massacre. The strike was conducted on a Hamas command center hidden within a humanitarian zone in the Al-Mawasi area.
According to the IDF, the operation was based on detailed intelligence and sustained aerial surveillance.
"We confirmed the presence of key Hamas figures and acted with precision to minimize collateral damage," said an IDF spokesperson. While Hamas claims that 40 civilians were killed and 60 injured, the IDF disputes these figures, accusing Hamas of inflating casualty numbers and using civilians as human shields.
"Hamas has repeatedly used civilians and humanitarian zones as cover for their operations. Despite our efforts to protect Gaza's civilians, Hamas exploits these areas to conceal their terror infrastructure," the IDF emphasized.
The strike has garnered international attention, with headlines in major outlets like The Washington Post and CNN focusing on the alleged civilian toll. The IDF, however, continues to highlight the moral challenges posed by Hamas' tactics and the importance of their mission to dismantle its military capabilities while minimizing harm to non-combatants.
This latest strike signals Israel’s resolve to continue its campaign against Hamas, despite international scrutiny, as the terror group attempts to regroup amid escalating tensions.