Israel says senior Hamas commander killed in Gaza strike

JERUSALEM, Sept. 29 (Xinhua) -- Israel said on Tuesday it had killed Izz al-Din al-Bik, commander of Hamas's northern Gaza brigade, in an overnight airstrike in the Gaza Strip.

The ruins in Beit Lahia, Gaza Strip, Palestine, August 18, 2026. (Photo: VCG)

A joint statement from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz said al-Bik had been involved in planning attacks against Israeli forces and recruiting fighters for Hamas.

Israel would continue targeting Hamas commanders and operatives, said the statement.

Israeli strikes have continued in Gaza despite a U.S.-brokered ceasefire that took effect in October 2025, with both Israel and Hamas accusing the other of violations.