The Israeli military has announced the killing of Qais Bitawi, a man it identified as a Hamas operative connected to militant activity in the Jenin area of the West Bank.
According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), Bitawi was targeted and killed during a military strike conducted near Jenin.
Israeli authorities described Bitawi as a member of what they called the former Jenin terrorist network, a group that the military says was dismantled during Operation Iron Wall.
Allegations of Involvement in Multiple Attacks
In its statement, the IDF accused Bitawi of playing a significant role in organizing and supporting attacks against Israeli civilians and security personnel. Military officials alleged that he was involved in directing operations, providing funding, and helping carry out attacks.
The Israeli military further claimed that Bitawi maintained communication and operational links with Hamas members in the Gaza Strip as well as operatives located outside the Palestinian territories.
Two Additional Individuals Reportedly Killed
According to the IDF, Bitawi was not alone at the time of the strike. The military said two additional individuals described as his accomplices were also killed during the operation.
Israeli forces stated that weapons were recovered from the vehicle in which the three men were traveling, though further details regarding the type and quantity of the weapons were not immediately disclosed.
IDF Highlights Hamas Presence Beyond Gaza
Following the announcement, the Israeli military used the incident to emphasize what it says is Hamas’ operational presence outside the Gaza Strip. In a separate statement, the IDF argued that the organization’s activities extend beyond Gaza and pointed to Bitawi’s alleged role in the Jenin area as evidence.
The military said the case demonstrates Hamas’ continued involvement in militant networks operating in the West Bank, particularly in and around Jenin, which has been a focal point of Israeli security operations in recent years.
Ongoing Security Operations in the West Bank
The reported strike comes amid continuing Israeli military operations across parts of the West Bank, where security forces have intensified efforts against armed groups. Jenin has remained one of the most active areas of confrontation, with Israeli authorities frequently carrying out raids and targeted operations against individuals accused of involvement in militant activities.
No immediate response from Hamas regarding the Israeli claims was available at the time of reporting. Independent verification of the allegations made by the Israeli military has not been established.
