Hamas Confirms Death of Commander Raed Saad After Israeli Strike in Gaza

Hamas has confirmed the death of Raed Saad, a top commander in Gaza. The group said he died on Saturday after an Israeli strike near Gaza City. Israel said the strike was part of a response to a recent attack on its soldiers. The death took place two months into a fragile ceasefire.

Raed Saad was linked to the military wing of Hamas. Israel called him a key planner of the October 7, 2023 assault. The strike also killed four others, according to an Associated Press report. The incident has raised new tension as both sides trade blame over truce violations.

Raed Saad’s Death Sparks New Concerns in Gaza Conflict

Hamas said Saad oversaw its military manufacturing unit. The group also said it has named a new leader, but it did not reveal a name. According to Reuters, Israel said Saad was working to rebuild Hamas forces. Israel said this was a clear breach of the ceasefire.

Israeli forces said they acted after two soldiers were wounded by an explosive device. The strike hit a vehicle west of Gaza City. Witnesses told AP that bodies were taken to Shifa Hospital soon after. Local hospitals also reported injuries in the same attack.

Palestinian health officials said Israeli actions have killed at least 391 people since the ceasefire began. Israel said its most recent strikes were defensive. It said troops fired only when Palestinians moved near the “Yellow Line,” a security boundary inside Gaza.

Both sides continue to accuse each other of breaking the truce. The situation remains tense as more reports emerge of isolated attacks. The ceasefire was meant to open the way for a long-term plan for Gaza. That plan includes rebuilding under international oversight.

Impact on Ceasefire Talks and Regional Stability

Israel has demanded the return of the last hostage held in Gaza. Officials said the transfer of the body of Ran Gvili is needed before new talks begin. Hamas has returned nearly all hostages or remains taken in 2023. But both sides remain far apart on the political future of Gaza.

Health officials in Gaza said more than 70,660 Palestinians have died in the conflict over two years. They said about half were women and children. These figures do not separate fighters from civilians. International bodies consider the ministry’s records generally reliable.

The loss of Raed Saad adds more pressure as both sides prepare for the next stage of talks. It also raises fresh questions about whether the ceasefire can hold. Many fear a return to wider fighting if both sides fail to reach new terms.

The death of Raed Saad may shape the next phase of the conflict. It adds weight to ongoing disputes. The main keyword “Raed Saad” remains central to this fast‑moving story.

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Q1: Who was Raed Saad?

Raed Saad was a senior Hamas commander. He oversaw military manufacturing for the group. Israel said he helped plan the October 7 attack.

Q2: How did Raed Saad die?

He died in an Israeli strike near Gaza City. The strike came after two Israeli soldiers were hurt by an explosive device.

Q3: How many people died in the strike?

An Associated Press journalist reported four deaths. Local hospitals said three more people were injured.

Q4: Why does his death matter?

His death adds strain to the ceasefire. Both sides accuse each other of violations. It may impact upcoming talks.

Q5: What is the wider death toll in Gaza?

Gaza health officials said more than 70,660 Palestinians have died in the conflict. About half were women and children.