In a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, two senior Hamas members have been killed in overnight airstrikes, according to statements from both the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Hamas.
The IDF confirmed in a statement that Minister of Economy Jawad Abu Shammala and senior member of the Hamas political bureau Zachariah Abu Maamar were killed in the overnight strikes. The statement provided further details about their roles within the organization.
Jawad Abu Shammala, who served as the Minister of Economy for Hamas, was responsible for managing terrorism funding both within and outside of the Gaza Strip, according to the IDF. His role involved overseeing the financial aspects of Hamas's activities, making him a key figure in the organization's operations.
Zachariah Abu Maamar was described by the IDF as "a senior Hamas decision-maker and coordinator between terror groups in the Gaza Strip." He played a crucial role in coordinating the activities of various terrorist groups operating within Gaza, making him a prominent and influential figure in the region.
Furthermore, the IDF noted that Abu Maamar was a "known confidant" of Yahya Sinwar, the leader of Hamas in the Gaza Strip. This connection highlights the significance of his role within the Hamas leadership hierarchy.
Hamas, in response, confirmed the deaths of these senior members in a statement posted on its Telegram channel. The statement referred to them as "Hamas political office members," acknowledging their importance within the organization.