Senior Hamas Officer Killed in Israeli Airstrike in Gaza

An Israeli airstrike has resulted in the death of Naseem al-Kalazani, a senior officer in the Hamas-run Interior Ministry in Gaza. The attack targeted his vehicle near the al-Mawasi area of western Khan Younis, killing the colonel who led the anti-narcotics force and wounding at least 17 others, according to health officials and Hamas sources.

As violence persists despite a ceasefire agreement in October 2025, Israeli forces have escalated their military operations against Gaza's police force, which is controlled by Hamas. This escalation forms part of the broader conflict dynamics, as both Israel and Hamas accuse each other of violating the ceasefire terms.

Israeli airstrikes are reportedly aimed at preventing potential attacks by Hamas and other militants, as affirmed by Israeli sources. Since the war's onset in October 2023, local health authorities report that over 72,500 Palestinians have died, predominantly civilians, while four Israeli soldiers have been killed by militants.

(With inputs from agencies.)