The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced that it has killed Waheed Abu Salam, a senior Hamas commander who it says played a role in the October 7, 2023, attacks on Israel and was recently involved in rebuilding the group’s military capabilities in the Gaza Strip.
IDF Identifies Abu Salam as Former Khan Yunis Commander
In a statement released on Thursday, the IDF identified Abu Salam as the former commander of the Western Company in Khan Yunis, an area in southern Gaza that has been the focus of extensive military operations during the conflict.
According to the Israeli military, Abu Salam was targeted and eliminated during ongoing operations against Hamas militants.
Military Links Commander to October 7 Attack
The IDF alleged that Abu Salam infiltrated Israeli territory during the October 7 attack carried out by Hamas-led militants.
Israeli officials further accused him of participating in the abduction of Israeli civilians who were taken into Gaza during the assault, which triggered the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas.
Israeli Forces Say Commander Was Rebuilding Hamas Capabilities
Beyond his alleged role in the October 2023 attack, the Israeli military claimed Abu Salam had recently been involved in efforts to restore Hamas’ military infrastructure.
The IDF said he was working to rehabilitate weapons and other capabilities intended to support future attacks against Israeli forces operating in Gaza.
Campaign Against Hamas Leadership Continues
The announcement forms part of Israel’s broader campaign targeting Hamas commanders and operatives throughout the Gaza Strip.
Israeli authorities say such operations are aimed at weakening the group’s command structure and preventing future attacks.
The IDF did not immediately provide additional details regarding the operation or specify when and where Abu Salam was killed. Hamas had not publicly commented on the Israeli military’s claims at the time of the announcement.
