An Israeli airstrike in Khan Younis, Gaza, killed senior Hamas leader Salah al-Bardaweel. A Hamas official confirmed his death to agencies early on Sunday. Moreover, the attack also killed Bardaweel’s wife, according to local reports.
Israel Remains Silent
So far, Israeli officials have not commented on the strike. However, Israel’s military resumed heavy airstrikes on Gaza last Tuesday, blaming Hamas for refusing to extend a ceasefire. The ceasefire, which began on January 19, lasted nearly two months.
Hamas and Israel Exchange Accusations
Meanwhile, Hamas denied Israel’s claims and instead accused Israel of violating the ceasefire agreement. Qatar, Egypt, and the US had brokered the deal. In addition, the Hamas-run health ministry reported that 32 Palestinians died in Israeli strikes over the past 24 hours.
Bardaweel Died While Praying
According to Hamas, Bardaweel and his wife were praying in their tent when the missile struck. Previously, Bardaweel served as a Hamas spokesperson and often appeared in local media. Furthermore, his death brings the number of Hamas officials killed since Tuesday to ten.
Israel’s Offensive Continues
Israel launched its military campaign after Hamas attacked on October 7, 2023. The attack killed 1,200 people, and Hamas took 251 hostages.
Since then, Israeli strikes have killed over 49,500 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s health ministry. As a result, homes and infrastructure now lie in ruins.
