The Israeli occupation forces says it Martyr a Hamas commander in a strike in central Gaza.
The military identified the commander as Sharif al-Hasanat. It said he worked with Hamas’ Deir al-Balah Battalion.
Israeli officials said al-Hasanat helped Hamas restore its tunnel network in Gaza.
Strike Hits Deir al-Balah
The Israeli occupation forces said the strike took place in Deir al-Balah earlier on Saturday.
According to the military, al-Hasanat took part in efforts to repair and restore Hamas tunnels.
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The military did not give further details about the strike. It also did not say whether other people died or suffered injuries.
Hamas has not yet responded to the Israeli military’s claim.
Israel Focuses on Hamas Tunnels
Israel has repeatedly said that Hamas’ tunnel network remains a key military threat.
Israeli occupation forces have targeted the network throughout the Gaza war. Israel says Hamas uses tunnels to move fighters, store weapons and plan attacks.
The Israeli occupation forces has also vowed to stop Hamas from rebuilding tunnels that Israeli forces previously damaged.
Gaza Ceasefire Remains Fragile
The latest strike comes as efforts continue to maintain a ceasefire in Gaza.
International mediators are also working on longer-term arrangements for Gaza. These discussions include security, governance and reconstruction.
Palestinian officials have repeatedly accused Israel of continuing military attacks in Gaza despite ceasefire efforts.
Israel says it will continue to act against threats from Hamas.
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The reported killing of al-Hasanat could add further pressure to the already fragile situation in the Gaza Strip.
