IDF eliminates Hamas Khan Younis Brigade commander in Gaza strike

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced the elimination of Muhammad Yazouri, the commander of Hamas’ Khan Younis Brigade, during an overnight airstrike in the southern Gaza Strip. The strike targeted a vehicle in the Hamad neighborhood, north of Khan Younis.

According to the IDF, Yazouri had held several senior leadership roles within the brigade, including deputy commander, head of the intelligence department, and commander of the Combat Support Battalion. The military stated that Yazouri was responsible for directing attacks against Israeli civilians and troops and worked to rebuild the brigade’s capabilities following significant losses during the ongoing conflict.

The operation also resulted in the deaths of Hudheifa Muammar, identified as a Hamas company commander, and Muhammad Bahjat Rashi. Reports indicate that Yazouri had survived multiple previous Israeli attempts to target him, including an incident in 2021 involving Yahya Sinwar.