Tel Aviv: The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced that Abd al-Hadi Sabah, a key Hamas commander and mastermind of the October 7, 2023, assault on Kibbutz Nir Oz, has been killed in a drone strike. The operation took place in the southern Gaza region of Khan Yunis, targeting Sabah, who led Hamas’ Nukhba Platoon within the Western Khan Yunis Battalion.
In a statement posted on social media platform X, the IDF confirmed the successful strike: “An intelligence-based IDF and ISA strike eliminated Abd al-Hadi Sabah, a Nukhba Platoon Commander in the Western Khan Yunis Battalion.” The IDF credited the operation to joint efforts with Israel’s Shin Bet security agency, underlining their commitment to holding accountable those responsible for the October 7 massacre.
Mastermind of the Kibbutz Nir Oz Assault
Sabah was identified as a key figure behind the October 7 attack, in which Hamas launched a coordinated assault on Israel, killing over 1,200 people and taking more than 250 hostages. The assault on Kibbutz Nir Oz was one of the bloodiest episodes in the massacre. According to the IDF, Sabah had been operating out of a shelter in Khan Yunis’ designated “Humanitarian Area” while continuing to orchestrate terrorist activities against Israeli forces during the ongoing conflict.
Continued IDF Operations
The IDF reported that Sabah’s elimination is part of a larger campaign targeting Hamas operatives linked to the October 7 attack. In recent weeks, the IDF, in collaboration with Shin Bet, has killed 14 Hamas militants, including six directly involved in the massacre. These operations have primarily focused on the Jabalia and Beit Lahia regions within Gaza.
The 162nd “Steel” Division of the IDF has played a central role in these efforts, conducting ground operations and leveraging intelligence to dismantle Hamas’ infrastructure. “All of the terrorists involved in the horrific October 7 massacre will continue to be targeted,” an IDF spokesperson emphasized.
The Broader Conflict
The October 7 assault marked a significant escalation in the Israel-Hamas conflict, prompting a fierce Israeli counteroffensive in Gaza. The ongoing conflict has resulted in over 45,000 Palestinian casualties, raising international concerns over civilian deaths and the humanitarian crisis. Calls for a ceasefire have intensified, but the situation remains volatile as both sides continue their campaigns.
Meanwhile, the conflict has expanded beyond Gaza, with Israel also facing attacks from Hezbollah in Lebanon and Houthi rebels in Yemen, both seen as Iranian proxies. The multifront war poses additional challenges for Tel Aviv as it seeks to protect its borders while neutralizing threats.
Hostages and Humanitarian Impact
More than 100 hostages taken during the October 7 assault remain in captivity. Many are feared dead, adding to the tragedy of the attack. Israel’s counteroffensive has drawn widespread condemnation for its devastating impact on civilians, while Hamas’ actions continue to face global criticism for targeting innocents.
Global Reactions
The international community remains divided, with some countries urging restraint and others backing Israel’s right to self-defense. The United Nations and various humanitarian organizations have called for immediate measures to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
As the conflict rages on, the elimination of high-ranking Hamas leaders like Abd al-Hadi Sabah underscores Israel’s determination to dismantle Hamas’ leadership and operational capabilities. However, the path to lasting peace remains fraught with challenges, requiring concerted efforts from all stakeholders.
