Israel has announced the elimination of Osama Tabash, the military intelligence chief of Hamas in southern Gaza. The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) stated that Tabash was also in charge of the group’s surveillance and targeting unit. His role included planning and coordinating operations during the October 2023 terror attack, as well as overseeing combat strategies on the ground.
Details about when and where he was killed have not been disclosed, and Hamas has not yet responded to the claim. This development comes as Israel’s defense minister has ordered ground forces to push deeper into Gaza. The goal is to pressure Hamas to release hostages, as the situation continues to escalate.
Israel Katz, the defense minister, emphasized that the refusal of Hamas to free the kidnapped individuals will result in Israel taking more territory. Tensions have been high since Israel resumed airstrikes following the collapse of a ceasefire agreement aimed at trading hostages for Palestinian prisoners.
Since the renewed conflict began, nearly 600 Palestinians have been reported killed, many of whom are children, according to health authorities in Gaza. Israel has stated that its military operations will continue until Hamas releases the 59 hostages it still holds, 24 of whom are believed to be alive.
Israeli troops have recently retaken parts of the Netzarim corridor, which separates northern and southern Gaza, and have moved towards significant locations such as Beit Lahiya and Rafah. The Israeli military has also reinforced a blockade on northern Gaza, including Gaza City.
In a tragic incident, an explosion east of Gaza City resulted in the deaths of a couple and their two children, along with two other children who were in the same building. Witnesses reported the event, and local hospitals confirmed the casualties. The Israeli military claimed that it targeted a militant in a building in Gaza City, stating that efforts were made to minimize civilian harm.
As the conflict continues, Israel has warned residents to evacuate certain neighborhoods in anticipation of further military actions. The situation remains fluid, and the humanitarian impact is significant as civilians bear the brunt of the ongoing violence.