Israel Claims Airstrike Targeted Hamas Spokesman Abu Ubaida in Gaza
The Israeli military says it carried out an airstrike in Gaza targeting Abu Ubaida, the spokesman of Hamas’s armed wing, the al-Qassam Brigades.
According to Israeli media, the strike hit the first and second floors of a residential building in Gaza City. The military has not released further details, and Hamas has not issued any response so far.
On Saturday, Israeli army spokesperson Avichay Adraee announced that a “senior Hamas figure” had been attacked in the northern part of Gaza City. Local media later reported that the intended target was Abu Ubaida, adding that there was a “95 percent likelihood” the operation was successful. Channel 12 said Israeli intelligence first received information about his location on Friday evening, and the strike was carried out the following day around 5:30 p.m.
Meanwhile, the humanitarian toll in Gaza continues to rise. Palestinian officials said 77 more people were killed in Israeli bombings on Saturday alone, including 19 who were waiting for aid. Since October 7, 2023, at least 63,371 Palestinians have been killed and more than 159,835 injured.
The situation has worsened with reports of famine and hunger-related deaths. Officials confirmed that 10 more people died recently due to starvation, blaming Israeli restrictions for blocking the delivery of humanitarian aid. They urged the international community to step in immediately.
In a related development, the UK announced it will not invite Israeli representatives to an upcoming defense exhibition in London, citing concerns over the expanded military operations in Gaza.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the army is still gathering evidence to confirm whether Abu Ubaida was killed.
