(Palestine, 16th) May 15 marks the 78th Palestinian "Nakba Day". On the evening of the 15th, Israel launched airstrikes on Gaza, resulting in at least 7 deaths and 50 injuries. Hamas military leader Haddad was killed.
Haddad was a member of Hamas's military council, and the Israeli side identified him as the current commander of the Hamas military wing, the Qassam Brigades.
In a joint statement, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and Defense Minister Gallant said they ordered the Israel Defense Forces to carry out the strike against Haddad, claiming Haddad was responsible for the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack on Israel. In addition, he had refused to implement the Gaza ceasefire agreement that called for the disarmament of Hamas and the demilitarization of Gaza.
Israel's public broadcaster quoted a senior Israeli security official as saying the strike was considered a "success". The Israeli military used drones and fighter jets to strike Haddad at his location in Gaza City, and also targeted a vehicle attempting to leave the area.
According to an Israeli security official disclosed to the media, Israel's political leadership approved the assassination of Haddad about 10 days ago. Since then, the Israelis have been monitoring his movements, and carried out the operation on the evening of the 15th because they had high confidence in eliminating the target.
In addition, Gaza health officials told the media that Israeli forces struck an apartment and a car in Gaza City, resulting in at least 7 deaths and 50 injuries. The attack caused powerful explosions and a fire.
On May 14, 1948, Israel declared its establishment as a state. The following day, the first Middle East War broke out, leaving nearly a million Palestinians as refugees. Since then, May 15 has been designated by Palestinians as "Nakba Day".