Israeli Airstrike Targets Hamas Military Leader Izz al-Din al-Haddad in Gaza
Israel conducted an airstrike in Gaza City targeting Izz al-Din al-Haddad, the leader of Hamas's military wing, with initial reports suggesting the operation was successful.
Israel carried out an airstrike in Gaza City on May 15, 2026, targeting Izz al-Din al-Haddad, the leader of Hamas's military wing, the Qassam Brigades.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that al-Haddad was responsible for the October 7, 2023, attack that resulted in approximately 1,200 Israeli deaths and 251 hostages.
Initial reports from Israeli defense sources indicate the operation may have been successful, though official confirmation is pending.
Al-Haddad, known as the "Ghost of al-Qassam," has been a key figure in Hamas since its inception in 1987. He has survived multiple Israeli assassination attempts and was appointed leader of the Qassam Brigades in May 2025 following the death of his predecessor, Mohammed Sinwar.
The airstrike is part of Israel's ongoing efforts to target individuals involved in the 2023 attack.
Hamas has not yet commented on the incident.