Deir al-Balah, Gaza – A prominent Hamas commander, Mohammed al-Houli, was killed today in an Israeli strike targeting Deir al-Balah in the central Gaza Strip. Palestinian sources confirmed the death, stating that al-Houli, a leader within the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, was killed along with members of his family.
Al-Houli was reportedly a key figure in the Central Region Brigade of the Qassam Brigades and had survived previous assassination attempts. The circumstances surrounding the strike remain unclear.
Hamas issued a statement condemning the Israeli action, calling it a “new crime” and a “flagrant violation” of the ceasefire agreement. The statement accused Israel of deliberately attempting to derail the agreement and prepare for a resumption of hostilities. “The Zionist occupation forces committed a new crime this evening by bombing the house of the Al-Houli family in Deir al-Balah in the central Gaza Strip, which led to the death of a number of Palestinians,” the Hamas statement read.
The group further asserted that the strike demonstrates Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s disregard for the ceasefire brokered by the United States and guaranteed by mediators. Hamas emphasized the need for the international community to hold Israel accountable and ensure adherence to all terms of the agreement, including the transition to its second phase. They called for a condemnation of the attack and urged mediators to act decisively to prevent further violations.
Since the ceasefire came into effect, reports indicate that hundreds of Palestinians have been killed or injured by Israeli forces, and restrictions on the entry of essential supplies into Gaza remain a significant concern. The humanitarian situation in Gaza, where approximately 2.4 million Palestinians reside, continues to be dire.
Tensions remain high in the region, with both sides accusing the other of violating the ceasefire terms. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, urging restraint and a return to negotiations to ensure a lasting peace.
