Hamas Military Leader Killed in Israeli Airstrike

The head of Hamas’ military branch has been eliminated in an airstrike conducted by Israeli forces. On Wednesday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the death of Mohamed Odeh, who was reportedly responsible for planning and directing attacks during the October 7 incident. This operation took place in northern Gaza.

According to the IDF, Odeh took over leadership of Hamas’ military wing following the removal of Izz al-Din al-Haddad. They shared an image showing Odeh alongside former Hamas leaders. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yisrael Katz stated, “Odeh was responsible for the deaths, abductions, and injuries of many Israeli citizens and soldiers. We will relentlessly pursue those involved in the October 7 attacks; eventually, Israel will find them all.”

Earlier this month, al-Haddad was also killed in an air strike in Gaza City. Following that event, IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir emphasized the military’s commitment to continuing operations against those responsible for the October 7 assaults. He remarked, “We will not hold back until we reach everyone involved. This is our duty to all the families affected and to the civilian population.”

After the removal of leaders like Yahya Sinwar and Mohamed Sinwar, al-Haddad took over Hamas’ military operations, aiming to restore its capabilities, which was seen as a clear breach of any ceasefire agreement, according to the IDF.

The IDF has described al-Haddad as a long-serving commander within Hamas and a crucial figure in organizing the events that led to the violence of October 7.

Moreover, during the conflict, he played a significant role in the kidnapping of several Israeli hostages. The IDF noted that the name of al-Haddad frequently arose during discussions with recently freed hostages, underscoring his notorious reputation.