Israel carried out two airstrikes in Gaza City on Tuesday evening, killing at least three people and wounding 12, according to Palestinian hospital officials. The attacks occurred on the eve of Eid al-Adha, a major Muslim holiday that has been subdued in Gaza due to the ongoing conflict.
Targeting the New Hamas Leader
In a joint statement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed that the strikes targeted Mohammed Odeh, identified as the new leader of Hamas's military wing. They described Odeh as “one of the architects” of the October 7, 2023, attacks that sparked the war. This action came less than two weeks after Israel killed the previous military chief, Izz al-Din al-Haddad.
Casualties and Response
The bodies of the deceased were taken to Shifa Hospital in Gaza, which confirmed the fatalities. Hamas has not yet issued a comment on the strikes. The attack occurred as families prepared for Eid al-Adha, a holiday that normally involves gatherings and feasts but remains somber this year, with most of Gaza's population displaced and living in tents or temporary shelters.
Fragile Ceasefire
The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, established last October, remains tenuous. Since its implementation, Israeli attacks have killed over 880 Palestinians. Israel claims its strikes are responses to Hamas violations or threats to its soldiers, but Palestinian health officials assert that many civilians are among the casualties. Four Israeli soldiers have also been killed during this period.
Background of the Conflict
Israel launched its Gaza offensive after the Hamas-led attacks in October 2023, which resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths and 250 hostages. The Palestinian Health Ministry in Gaza, part of the Hamas-run government, reports that over 72,700 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire, though it does not distinguish between civilians and militants.
