Hamas Commander Raed Saad Killed in Israeli Strike as Tensions Rise in Gaza

Israel said it killed Hamas commander Raed Saad in a strike near Gaza City on Saturday. Hamas confirmed his death on Sunday. The strike hit a vehicle west of the city. It came during a fragile ceasefire that has faced repeated violations.

Saad was a senior military figure in Hamas. Israel said he helped plan the October 7 attack and later worked to rebuild Hamas forces. Hamas called him the head of its military manufacturing unit. His death marks a major moment in the conflict and adds strain to the truce.

Raed Saad Death Adds Pressure to Gaza Ceasefire

According to the Associated Press, four people were killed in the strike. Three others were hurt. Hospitals in Gaza confirmed the casualties. Hamas said the vehicle struck was a civilian one.

Israel said the operation came after an explosive device wounded two Israeli soldiers in southern Gaza. Reuters reported that Israel views recent strikes as responses to attacks against its troops. Israel said Palestinians were also shot after approaching the “Yellow Line,” a narrow zone dividing Israeli‑controlled areas from the rest of the territory.

Hamas announced it has named a new commander. It did not give a name or further details. The group said Israel continues to target its leaders despite the ongoing truce. The ceasefire took effect two months ago but remains unstable.

Palestinian health officials said at least 391 Palestinians have been killed since the ceasefire began. These deaths came from Israeli strikes and shootings. The toll includes civilians and militants. Israel insists its actions are defensive.

Conflict Deepens as Both Sides Trade Accusations

Israel has demanded that militants return the remains of the final hostage, Ran Gvili. Israel says this step is required before moving to the next phase of the ceasefire. That phase includes a plan for a demilitarized Gaza under international oversight and the end of Hamas rule.

The war began after the October 7, 2023 attack. The attack killed about 1,200 people in Israel and led to 251 hostages being taken. Most hostages or their remains have since been returned in previous ceasefires and deals.

The Gaza Health Ministry says more than 70,660 Palestinians have been killed during Israel’s two‑year campaign. The ministry does not separate civilians from fighters. International groups view its records as generally reliable. Many of the dead are women and children.

The death of Raed Saad may shift the conflict again. His role in Hamas was significant. His loss may slow some operations, but tensions remain high. Both sides continue to accuse each other of breaking the truce.

The killing of Raed Saad marks another sharp turn in the Gaza conflict. The main keyword here is “Raed Saad.” His death will shape the next stage of the fragile ceasefire and the wider fight.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Who was Raed Saad?

Raed Saad was a top Hamas commander. He led its military manufacturing unit. Israel linked him to the October 7 attack.

Q2: How did Raed Saad die?

He died in an Israeli strike near Gaza City. The strike hit a vehicle. Hospitals confirmed multiple casualties.

Q3: What does his death mean for the ceasefire?

It adds pressure to the fragile truce. Both sides accuse each other of breaking it. The region could see more tension.

Q4: What is the current death toll in Gaza?

The Gaza Health Ministry reports more than 70,660 deaths. Many are women and children. The toll has risen throughout the conflict.

Q5: What does Israel want next?

Israel wants the return of Ran Gvili’s remains. It says this is required before moving to the next ceasefire phase.