Israel Nears Completion of Hamas Elimination Operation

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that the operation to eliminate Hamas is nearing its conclusion, emphasizing progress in neutralizing the group's leadership. This statement came during a memorial service for Ran Gvili, an off-duty police officer killed during the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack. The event, held in Meitar, Israel, on January 28, 2026, also honored the last hostage recovered from Gaza. Netanyahu pledged to remove every individual involved in planning massacres and hostage-taking, highlighting Israel's determination to hold perpetrators accountable.Le Monde+2

🎯 Strategic Elimination

Israel has confirmed the killing of Ezzedine Al-Haddad, Hamas's military wing leader, in a precision airstrike on May 16, 2026. Al-Haddad was a key architect of the October 7, 2023 attacks, and his death marks the loss of Hamas's last historical military leader since the attack. The IDF targeted both a residential building and a vehicle in Gaza City's Al-Ramal neighborhood, resulting in seven Palestinian deaths, including civilians.The Independent+2

⚠️ Civilian Impact

Gaza medics reported three women and a child among the seven fatalities, with mosques announcing Al-Haddad's death. The attack violated the US-backed ceasefire agreement from October 2023, though Israel maintained it was a necessary military operation. Palestinian sources confirmed Al-Haddad's wife and daughter also perished in the strike. The funeral took place in Gaza City, where mourners gathered to pay their respects.The Independent+2

🔥 Regional Escalation

The killing occurred amid deadlocked post-war negotiations and heightened tensions on Nakba Day. Hamas officially acknowledged Al-Haddad's death, while Israel accused him of direct involvement in hostage situations. The strike represents Israel's first targeted assassination of a senior Hamas official since the 2023 ceasefire. The Qassam Brigades stated the attack violated ceasefire agreements and vowed continued resistance.The Korea Herald+2

🕊️ Unresolved Conflict

With talks on Gaza's future stalled, the operation underscores ongoing hostilities. Israel continues targeting Hamas leadership while facing international scrutiny over civilian casualties. The incident leaves both sides at an impasse, with no immediate prospects for de-escalation. The attack highlights the fragile nature of ceasefire agreements and the persistent tensions in the region.France 24+2