Israel says it killed new Hamas Military leader Mohammed Odeh in Gaza Strike

Israel has said it killed the newly appointed leader of Hamas’ military wing in an airstrike in Gaza City, just days after eliminating his predecessor, escalating tensions in the ongoing conflict in the region.

According to Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz and the Israel Defence Forces (IDF), the strike carried out on Tuesday targeted Mohammed Odeh, who was identified as the new head of Hamas’ military operations. Hamas has not issued any confirmation or comment on the claim.

Local hospital officials reported that at least five people were killed in the strike, including Odeh, his wife, son, daughter, and another woman. The attack reportedly took place in a crowded market area in Gaza City on the eve of Eid al-Adha.

Following the strike, thousands attended a joint funeral for the victims, where mourners wrapped bodies in green Hamas flags and carried them through the streets while chanting slogans and firing shots in the air.

Israeli officials said Odeh was one of the key figures behind the October 7, 2023 attacks and described him as part of the leadership responsible for orchestrating the assault. Defence Minister Katz said Israel would continue targeting those involved in the attacks, stating that all such individuals “will be eliminated.”

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also reiterated that Israel would pursue everyone linked to the October 2023 assault, amid ongoing military operations in Gaza.

The strike comes amid continued violence despite a fragile ceasefire framework that has seen repeated flare-ups in the region. Palestinian sources say hundreds have been killed since the ceasefire period began, while Israel maintains its actions are responses to security threats and violations.

Meanwhile, humanitarian conditions in Gaza remain severe, with large-scale displacement reported and millions of residents continuing to rely on aid for survival amid widespread destruction of infrastructure.

The conflict began after the October 2023 Hamas attack on Israel that killed around 1,200 people and led to the abduction of 251 hostages, triggering a prolonged and devastating war in Gaza.