An Israeli airstrike in Gaza killed Hamas military wing leader Izz al-Din al-Haddad, whom Israel identified as one of the last surviving planners of the Oct. 7, 2023 attacks on southern Israel. Hamas confirmed his death following the strike.

Israeli officials said al-Haddad played a central role in directing the assault that left about 1,200 people dead and more than 250 taken hostage. He had recently assumed leadership of Hamas' military wing after the death of Mohammed Sinwar.

Israel also accused al-Haddad of positioning himself near Israeli hostages during the war to deter targeted strikes. His family said he was killed along with six others, including his wife and daughter. Israeli military leadership described the operation as a significant achievement and vowed to continue pursuing those responsible for the Oct. 7 attack.