Israeli Airstrikes Intensify: Casualties Among Hamas Leadership and Civilians
In a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict, Israeli airstrikes have resulted in the deaths of several members of Hamas leader Ismail Haniya's family, including his sister Zahar Haniya. The strikes targeted the Shati refugee camp in Gaza City, a location reportedly used by Hamas for military purposes. Palestinian sources, corroborated by medical and family reports, confirmed that a dozen relatives of Haniya were killed. This attack follows a similar incident in April where three of Haniya's children and three grandchildren were killed.
Increased Civilian Casualties in Gaza
The conflict has also seen a devastating impact on civilians. At least 14 people were killed in bombings on two UNRWA schools used as shelters. The overall death toll in Gaza has reached over 37,000, the majority being civilians, according to the Hamas government. The Israeli military continues to target what it identifies as 'Hamas military infrastructure,' but the civilian toll has drawn international condemnation.
Hamas' Resilience and Recruitment Efforts
Despite significant losses, Hamas is reportedly working to rebuild its military capabilities. Israeli military sources indicate that Hamas is actively recruiting and training new members to replace those killed or injured. The group aims to compensate for the approximately 14,000 members lost in the conflict. Areas like Khan Yunis are seeing a resurgence of Hamas control, with local police and military frameworks being reestablished.
- The Israeli army has not confirmed the details of the recent airstrikes, but it has acknowledged ongoing operations targeting Hamas leaders and infrastructure. The conflict, which began on October 7 with a Hamas attack on Israeli soil that killed 1,195 people, has seen relentless military actions from both sides.
- Israeli officials, including the head of the National Security Council, Tzachi Hanegbi, have stated that the goal is to eliminate Hamas not just militarily but ideologically. However, this stance has faced criticism for lacking a clear post-war plan for Gaza's governance.
- Hamas, on the other hand, continues to frame its losses as sacrifices for the Palestinian cause, with leader Ismail Haniya calling his deceased family members martyrs. The group's resilience is evident as it seeks to maintain control and continue its operations despite the heavy toll.
