CAIRO — Hamas’ armed wing, the al‑Qassam Brigades, reported on Friday that Israel killed Mohammed Abdel Salam al‑Yazouri, a senior commander in the group’s higher leadership council and the leader of its Khan Younis Brigade.

The statement from the al‑Qassam Brigades said al‑Yazouri played a prominent role in planning the Oct. 7, 2023 attack on Israel. The group did not provide details about the circumstances of the strike that killed him, only that it occurred on Thursday evening.

Background

Al‑Yazouri was considered one of the key figures in Hamas’ military hierarchy. His involvement in the planning of the Oct. 7 assault has been cited by Israeli officials as evidence of the group’s coordinated strategy.

Israel has not issued a separate statement confirming the death, but the Israeli military has previously said it continues to target senior Hamas leaders in the Gaza Strip as part of its ongoing operations.

Reactions

Hamas described the killing as a “significant loss” for its armed wing and vowed to continue its resistance. The group’s statement emphasized that the death would not deter its objectives.

U.S. officials have not commented directly on al‑Yazouri’s death, but the administration continues to call for a cease‑fire and a negotiated solution to the conflict.

Implications

The removal of a senior commander could affect Hamas’ operational capabilities, though analysts note that the organization has a deep bench of leaders ready to assume command.

Observers say the strike underscores Israel’s focus on dismantling Hamas’ command structure while the broader humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire.

Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.