Two Senior Hamas Leaders Killed in Israeli Airstrike on Rafah

In a significant operation on Sunday night, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) conducted an airstrike on a Hamas compound in northwestern Rafah, resulting in the elimination of two senior Hamas terrorists. The strike targeted Yassin Rabia, head of Hamas's Judea and Samaria headquarters, and Khaled Nagar, a senior official in the same wing, who were both involved in orchestrating and funding terrorist attacks in the early 2000s.

The IDF confirmed the operation, emphasizing that it was executed based on solid intelligence and carried out with precision weaponry, in accordance with international law. However, reports emerged that noncombatants were among the casualties, with the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry claiming 35 civilians were killed and dozens wounded. The IDF is currently investigating these reports.

Rabia and Nagar had a notorious history of terrorist activities that resulted in the deaths and injuries of numerous Israeli soldiers and civilians. They were also instrumental in planning attacks and transferring funds for terrorist operations in Judea and Samaria.

The strike occurred in Tel Sultan, an area known for housing one of the four Hamas battalions in Rafah. Hamas condemned the strike, labeling it a "massacre" and called for widespread protests. The Palestinian Authority echoed this sentiment, accusing Israel of targeting a displaced persons camp and challenging international legitimacy.

International reactions varied, with the U.S. National Security Council gathering more information about the incident, and French NGO Doctors Without Borders expressing concern over the safety of civilians.

This operation came shortly after Hamas launched a rocket barrage from Rafah towards Tel Aviv and central Israel. The IDF later destroyed the rocket launcher, which was situated near two mosques.

Additionally, the IDF announced the deaths of two Israeli soldiers from wounds sustained during combat in northern Gaza. This brings the total number of Israeli troops killed in Gaza since the ground incursion began on October 27 to 282, and 636 on all fronts since October 7.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant affirmed the IDF's continued efforts in Rafah to rescue hostages held by Hamas and dismantle the terrorist organization. The strategic strikes are part of Israel's broader campaign to secure its borders and protect its citizens.

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