Israel has reported the assassination of senior Hamas leader and co-founder Muhammad Issa Al-Issa in a targeted assassination in Gaza City. The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) and Israel Securities Authority (ISA) made the announcement on Friday, representing a significant setback for Hamas’ remaining leadership.
The IDF reported that Al-Issa was killed in the Sabra neighbourhood and was one of the last remaining top Hamas officials in Gaza. The strike follows increasing pressure for a ceasefire, though expectations are unclear. Israel accuses Al-Issa of being key to Hamas’ October 7 attack, even as the war rages on in Gaza.
Al-Issa Occupied Senior Roles in Hamas
Al-Issa was among Hamas founders and also co-founded its armed wing. Prior to his death, he was head of combat support and a member of Hamas’ General Security Council. The IDF described him as a “key source of knowledge” and a top military commander who continued to play an important role in spite of months of Israeli action.
The military asserted that Al-Issa played a role in rebuilding Hamas’ broken organisational infrastructure during the war. It further alleged he had facilitated directly attacks on Israeli forces as well as civilians. Although the IDF accused him of assisting to plan the October 7 massacre, it refrained from releasing particular details.
War Drags On as Hamas Loses Leadership
Israel declared war on Hamas following the group’s unexpected attack on October 7, which took the lives of 1,200 individuals and resulted in the kidnapping of over 200 others. Other hostages are still held in Gaza. Israel has responded by conducting ongoing attacks throughout the enclave, which have resulted in the deaths of over 56,000 Palestinians and injuring thousands.
So far, Hamas has lost much of its leadership. The organization, however, keeps fighting back with reconstituted systems and tactics. The killing of Al-Issa is a significant operational setback but also questions the continuity of violence.
Ceasefire Discussions Continue to Be Uncertain
Although there have been various rounds of negotiations, a permanent ceasefire has not emerged. The two sides have mutually agreed to temporary pauses in combat previously, primarily in order to swap prisoners and permit aid to pass through. But on Friday, US President Donald Trump stated a new ceasefire was possible “within the next week.” He did not mention if it would be a temporary or indefinite ceasefire, or if hostage swaps would occur.
Israel sent a clear message by continuing to target Hamas leaders involved in the October 7 bloodshed. Al-Issa’s death proves that Israel remains determined to pursue its mission, even as international calls for peace grow louder.