The Israeli military and security agency Shin Bet announced that it killed senior Hamas commander Musa Shaldan in an airstrike last week. Meanwhile, attention remains on ongoing operations in Gaza.

Shaldan was the deputy commander of Hamas’s Zeitoun Battalion in Gaza City. He was also frequently seen in videos linked to hostage releases.

Shaldan’s Role

According to Israeli authorities, Shaldan participated in the October 7 terrorist attack on Israel. Furthermore, he served as the battalion’s intelligence officer and deputy company commander.

During the current conflict, Shaldan managed hostage operations in Gaza City. Operating from humanitarian shelters, he attacked Israeli troops using sniper fire, explosives, and anti-tank weapons. In addition, he oversaw Hamas’s combat compound plan in Zeitoun. The Israeli military said it will continue targeting terrorist groups in Gaza.

Background of the Conflict

The war began after the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack. As a result, 1,195 people, mostly civilians, were killed, and 251 were taken hostage. Forty-eight hostages remain captive.

Local hospitals reported that at least 10 people died in strikes on homes in the Nuseirat refugee camp. Moreover, Gaza’s Health Ministry said the overall death toll has reached 66,005, with 168,162 wounded. Women and children account for about half of the casualties.

Israeli Strikes and Destruction

Residents reported explosions and building demolitions overnight. Additionally, Israel said it struck 140 Hamas military targets in the past 24 hours. Recently, it demolished the 16-storey Macca Tower in Gaza City after warning residents to evacuate. Israel claimed the building contained “military infrastructure belonging to Hamas.”

Consequently, the offensive has destroyed large parts of Gaza. Around 90% of the population has been displaced, creating a severe humanitarian crisis.Israel killed senior Hamas commander Musa Shaldan in an airstrike as the ongoing conflict in Gaza causes massive casualties and destruction.