Washington, D.C. – A senior Hamas commander was reportedly killed in an Israeli airstrike last week, according to the White House on Monday. The targeted airstrike marks a significant development in Israel’s ongoing conflict with Hamas.
White House National Security Advisor, Jake Sullivan, confirmed the news, stating that the operation resulted in the death of Marwan Issa, Hamas’ number three leader. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) declined to comment on the incident when approached by CNN for confirmation.
Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, the IDF spokesperson, disclosed that the strike targeted an underground compound in central Gaza, where Issa and other Hamas officials were believed to be. Due to the location of the compound underground, the IDF was unable to immediately verify Issa’s death.
Issa, who served as the deputy to Mohammed Deif, the head of Hamas’ military division, was reportedly involved in planning an attack against Israel in October. President Joe Biden emphasized the need for a comprehensive strategy to combat Hamas during a recent call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, highlighting the significance of eliminating key commanders like Issa.
The development comes amid escalating tensions in the region and ongoing military actions between Israel and Hamas. The targeted airstrike represents a blow to Hamas, which has faced significant losses as Israel continues its efforts to weaken the militant group.
The situation underscores the challenging dynamics in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the complexities involved in achieving lasting peace in the region. Both sides remain entrenched in their positions, with the latest strike further complicating efforts to find a sustainable solution to the long-standing conflict.