IDF Eliminates Senior Hamas and Islamic Jihad Commanders in Ongoing Counterterror Effort
In a major counterterrorism operation over the past two weeks, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), guided by intelligence from the Shin Bet (ISA), successfully eliminated a string of high-ranking operatives from Hamas and the Islamic Jihad. These individuals were key figures in the terrorist groups’ efforts to rebuild their military infrastructure in the Gaza Strip.
According to the IDF, the targeted strikes focused on operatives involved in Hamas’ Weapons Production Headquarters and Military Intelligence Unit—two pillars of the group’s military arm. These units were reportedly working to restore Hamas’ arsenal and maintain operational control after suffering significant battlefield losses.
Among the prominent terrorists eliminated:
- Muhammad Abu Awwad: A senior figure in Hamas’ Weapons Production Headquarters and head of its technical control division, Awwad was pivotal in advancing Hamas’ precision missile capabilities.
- Bilal Abu Shikha and Tayseer Shareem: Section commanders in the Weapons Production Headquarters, directly involved in weapons manufacturing.
- Mundhir Salami: A production site commander who played a central role in producing various weapons and enhancing Hamas’ combat readiness.
- Mustafa Dababesh: Deputy Head of Department within the Weapons Production Headquarters.
- Bilal Musallam and Ahmad Abu Shamala: Key operatives in Hamas’ Military Intelligence Unit, tasked with gathering intelligence to support terror operations.
- Rabi‘ Mustafa Rabi‘ Sukhweil: A financial operative in Hamas’ military wing, Sukhweil facilitated the transfer of millions of dollars to support terror operations and reconstruction of militant capabilities.
- Muhammad Al-Bayouk: A senior operative in the Islamic Jihad’s Weapons Production Apparatus, known for his contributions to the group’s arms production.
The IDF stated that these actions are part of a broader strategy to prevent Hamas and Islamic Jihad from regenerating their terror infrastructure. The military emphasized that operations will continue to focus on dismantling the command hierarchy and logistical networks critical to these groups’ ability to wage war.
“These targeted strikes are designed to neutralize the backbone of Hamas and Islamic Jihad’s military renewal efforts,” an IDF spokesperson said. “We remain resolute in our mission to deny them the ability to rebuild and threaten Israeli civilians.”
The campaign underscores Israel’s ongoing intelligence-driven operations aimed at delivering long-term strategic blows to terrorist organizations operating in Gaza.
