Hamas Commander Eliminated in Gaza Strike
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the Israel Security Agency (Shin Bet) confirmed on Saturday, January 17, 2026, the killing of senior Hamas commander Muhammad Hamed Muhammad al-Hawli in a strike in Gaza. Al-Hawli was identified as a long-standing operative within the terrorist organization, with a history of involvement in significant attacks against Israel. The IDF stated that the operation was part of broader strikes conducted across the Gaza Strip in response to a 'blatant violation' of the ceasefire in the Rafah area.
Role in October 7, 2023, Invasion
According to the Israeli military, Muhammad Hamed Muhammad al-Hawli played a significant role in the preparations for the October 7, 2023, invasion of the northwestern Negev. He served as the commander of Hamas's Central Camps Brigade, a position from which he contributed to the planning of the large-scale assault.
Involvement in 1995 Nahal Oz Attack
Al-Hawli was also linked to a deadly attack that occurred nearly three decades prior. The IDF stated that he directed the terrorists who carried out the February 6, 1995, attack at the Nahal Oz checkpoint. In this incident, Israeli security guard Yevgeny Gromov was murdered while escorting fuel tankers into the Gaza Strip. Gromov was the sole fatality in the attack. While Hamas never formally claimed responsibility for the 1995 attack, the IDF attributed its direction to al-Hawli.
Context of the Strike
The elimination of al-Hawli occurred during a series of Israeli airstrikes across the Gaza Strip. These strikes were described by Israeli officials as a response to a 'blatant violation' of the ceasefire, following reports of gunmen opening fire on Israeli troops in western Rafah. Palestinian reports following the strike in central Gaza's Deir al-Balah indicated that at least five additional people, including al-Hawli's wife and daughter, were also killed.
5 Comments
Coccinella
Bringing down key figures like this is crucial. Protecting citizens is paramount.
Muchacho
Targeting a family is never acceptable. This is a war crime.
Habibi
Removing a high-ranking commander like this might disrupt Hamas's operations in the short term, but without addressing the root causes of conflict, such actions often lead to new leaders emerging and continued violence.
BuggaBoom
Another 'violation' used as an excuse for disproportionate force. The world is watching.
Noir Black
Finally, accountability for those who orchestrate terror. This sends a clear message.