Israel Kills Senior Hamas Commander in Gaza Strike Amid Ceasefire Tension

Israel said it killed a top Hamas commander in Gaza on Saturday. The strike took place on December 13 near Gaza City. It happened after an explosive device wounded two Israeli soldiers in the south. The attack hit a civilian car, and the blast killed four people, according to Associated Press.

The incident raised new tension in the fragile ceasefire. Hamas did not confirm the death of Raed Saad. It said the strike was a clear breach of the October 10 ceasefire. Both sides have blamed each other for repeated violations since the truce began.

Israel Says Raed Saad Was Key Hamas Figure

Israel said Raed Saad helped plan the 2023 Hamas attack that began the war. It said he later worked to rebuild Hamas operations. According to Reuters and AP, Israel viewed him as a major threat. He was known inside Gaza as a senior figure in Hamas’ manufacturing and operations divisions.

The strike killed four people. Their bodies were taken to Al-Shifa Hospital. An AP journalist witnessed the arrival. Three more people were hurt, according to Al-Awda Hospital.

Israel said the action followed new militant attacks. It also said its troops fired on Palestinians who approached the “Yellow Line,” a controlled zone. Palestinian officials said Israeli actions have killed at least 386 people since the ceasefire started.

Israel has demanded the return of the remains of Ran Gvili. It called this a condition for moving into the second phase of the truce plan. That stage includes ending Hamas rule and setting up a demilitarized Gaza under global oversight.

Growing Human Toll and Strain on Ceasefire Plans

The Gaza Health Ministry said more than 70,650 Palestinians have been killed since the war began. It said many of the dead are women and children. The ministry does not separate fighters from civilians, but its records are viewed as generally reliable by the international community.

Much of Gaza is now in ruins. More than two million people have been displaced. Reports from AFP and AP show that aid entering Gaza is still below agreed levels. Many Palestinians who lost limbs face long waits for evacuation and care.

The October 2023 Hamas attack killed around 1,200 people in Israel. Militants seized 251 hostages that day. Almost all have since been returned alive or as remains. The new strike risks slowing efforts to move the ceasefire plan forward.

The death of Raed Saad adds new strain to the ceasefire. Israel says it will continue to act if its troops face danger. The main keyword remains central to this conflict: Israel Gaza strike.

Thought you’d like to know-

Q1: What is an Israel Gaza strike?

An Israel Gaza strike is an attack carried out by Israeli forces inside Gaza. It may target militants, weapons sites, or vehicles. These strikes often raise tension in the region.

Q2: Who was Raed Saad?

Raed Saad was a senior Hamas commander. Israel said he helped plan the 2023 attack. Hamas did not confirm his death.

Q3: How many people were killed in this strike?

Four people were killed, according to AP. Three others were hurt. The strike hit a civilian car near Gaza City.

Q4: Is the ceasefire still in place?

The ceasefire remains active but fragile. Both sides accuse each other of violations. New strikes have increased concern.

Q5: What are the long-term plans for Gaza?

Israel wants a demilitarized Gaza under international control. It said progress depends on hostage remains being returned. Talks remain ongoing.