On Thursday, reports confirmed that Hamas spokesperson Abdul Latif al-Qanou was killed by an Israeli air strike in northern Gaza. The strike targeted al-Qanou's tent in Jabalia, according to Hamas-run Al-Aqsa TV, and left several others wounded. Separate attacks in Gaza City and Khan Younis resulted in additional casualties, with at least six reported in Gaza City and one in Khan Younis.
These incidents add to a series of high-profile killings following the end of a two-month ceasefire. Earlier this week, Israeli forces also killed senior Hamas figures, including Ismail Barhoum and Salah al-Bardawil, both members of the 20-member Hamas decision-making body. According to Hamas sources, 11 members of this body have lost their lives since the conflict resumed in late 2023.
The renewed operations come amid mounting pressures on Hamas to secure the release of hostages. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the strikes were ordered after Hamas rejected proposals to extend the ceasefire, and he reiterated warnings of potential territorial seizures if hostages are not freed. Gaza's health ministry has reported that since major military strikes resumed on March 18, at least 830 people—over half of them women and children—have lost their lives.
For today’s globally connected young audiences, these unfolding events underline the multifaceted challenges in the region. Beyond the immediate human tragedy, the conflict impacts international policies, humanitarian efforts, and regional stability, offering crucial insights into the dynamics shaping our world.
Reference(s):
Hamas spokesperson killed in Israeli air strike on N Gaza: media
cgtn.com
