High-Stakes Strike: Israeli Forces Target Senior Hamas Commander

The Israeli military targeted senior Hamas commander Raed Saed in a Gaza City strike, marking a significant escalation after an October ceasefire. The move came after a Hamas attack injured Israeli soldiers. Violence continues despite the ceasefire, impacting civilians on both sides.

The Israeli military announced a high-profile operation resulting in the death of senior Hamas commander Raed Saed. This strike, perpetrated in Gaza City, represented the most significant targeting of a Hamas figure since the ceasefire came into play in October.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz issued a joint statement declaring that Saed was eliminated in response to an earlier assault involving an explosive device that injured two soldiers. The impactful strike caused five fatalities and injured at least 25, as reported by Gaza health authorities, although confirmation from Hamas regarding Saed's death was not available.

The attack has sparked controversy, with Hamas branding it a ceasefire violation. Saed was instrumental in advancing Hamas's weaponry systems, according to Israeli sources. Despite the ceasefire, violence remains, with further casualties reported on both sides since its implementation.

(With inputs from agencies.)