The Israeli military announced that its forces have eliminated Muhammad Naif Abu Shamala, a commander in the Nukhba unit of Hamas, during an operation in southern Khan Yunis on August 13th, 2025. Abu Shamala was identified as a key figure who infiltrated Israel and participated in the attempted attack on the Ma'aras military post during the October 7th massacre. Throughout the ongoing conflict, he was responsible for orchestrating multiple attacks against Israeli forces and civilians. Military officials reaffirmed their commitment to targeting individuals involved in the October 7th events.