The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have announced the killing of a senior member of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad organization during recent military operations in the Gaza Strip.
According to the military, the individual played a significant role in militant activities and was linked to the events that unfolded in southern Israel on October 7, 2023.
Commander Linked to October 7 Attack Identified
Israeli officials identified the militant as Zaki Youssef Mahmoud Abu Mustafa, who reportedly served as a Nukhba commander within the Khan Yunis Brigade of Islamic Jihad.
The IDF stated that Abu Mustafa was among those who entered Kibbutz Nir Oz during the October 7 attack and was involved in the abduction of Yagil Yaakov.
The military described him as a prominent operative who had participated in planning and carrying out attacks against Israeli forces over an extended period.
Allegations of Hospital-Based Militant Operations
In its statement, the IDF also accused Abu Mustafa of using Nasser Hospital in Khan Yunis to support militant activities.
Israeli authorities have repeatedly alleged that armed groups in Gaza have utilized civilian infrastructure, including medical facilities, for operational purposes—claims that have remained a point of international scrutiny and debate throughout the conflict.
Hamas Operative Also Reportedly Killed
Alongside the announcement regarding Abu Mustafa, the Israeli military said another militant was eliminated during the operation.
The individual was identified as Mohammed Osama Abd al-Aziz Saba al-Eish, whom the IDF described as a Hamas Nukhba operative.
Israeli officials did not immediately provide further details regarding the circumstances of his death or the specific role he played within Hamas.
Continuing Operations in Gaza
The latest announcement comes as Israeli forces continue military operations across various parts of Gaza, targeting members of Hamas and Islamic Jihad.
The campaign, launched following the October 7 attacks, remains focused on dismantling militant infrastructure and pursuing individuals accused of involvement in attacks against Israel.
Military activity has remained particularly intense in and around Khan Yunis, an area that Israeli officials say has served as a key operational hub for several armed groups active in the enclave.
