The Israeli military says it has carried out a targeted operation in the Gaza Strip that resulted in the deaths of three senior members of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad movement, marking another blow to the group’s military leadership amid ongoing fighting in the enclave.
According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), those killed held key positions within the organization’s operational and weapons-development units.
Israeli officials stated that the operation focused on figures involved in strengthening the group’s combat capabilities and directing attacks against Israeli forces.
Engineering Wing Leaders Among Those Killed
Among those identified by the Israeli military was Muhammad Atiya Hassan Abu Afash, who was described as the head of Islamic Jihad’s engineering and specializations division.
The IDF alleged that Abu Afash played a central role in advancing the organization’s engineering capabilities and overseeing the development of military-related infrastructure.
Also reported killed was Farhat Zuhair Farhat Harara, identified as the deputy head of the same engineering division.
Israeli officials said Harara worked closely with Abu Afash and was considered one of the organization’s senior engineering operatives.
The military further named Abdallah Allah Riyad Masoud Qadoum as another casualty of the operation.
According to Israel, Qadoum led the anti-tank missile unit in northern Gaza and was linked to multiple attacks targeting Israeli troops operating in the territory.
Hamas Naval Police Headquarters Targeted in Khan Yunis
In a separate military announcement, the IDF said it launched a strike against what it described as the primary headquarters of Hamas’ Naval Police in the Khan Yunis area of southern Gaza.
Israeli officials stated that the facility was being used by Hamas operatives and served as a base for planning and carrying out attacks against both Israeli soldiers and civilians.
The military said several individuals operating from the location were killed during the strike.
Hamas Commander Reportedly Killed in Strike
Among those reportedly killed was Ismail al-Lahham, whom the Israeli military identified as a cell commander within Hamas’ military wing.
The IDF alleged that the site was not only being used for operational activities but also played a role in Hamas’ efforts to restore and expand its military capabilities.
Israeli officials further claimed that such activities violated existing ceasefire arrangements.
Ongoing Operations Against Militant Infrastructure
The latest operations form part of Israel’s broader campaign targeting the leadership, weapons networks, and operational infrastructure of armed groups in Gaza.
Israeli authorities say their focus remains on disrupting command structures and limiting the ability of militant organizations to rebuild military capabilities.
As military operations continue, both sides remain engaged in a conflict that has drawn significant international attention, with developments on the ground closely monitored by regional and global actors.
