Who Was Iyad Shambari? Hamas Intelligence Chief Killed in Gaza, Says Israel
The Israel Defense Forces has announced the killing of Iyad Ahmad Abd al-Rahman Shambari, a senior Hamas intelligence operative, during an airstrike in northern Gaza.
According to Israeli authorities, Shambari served as the head of the operations division in the military intelligence wing of Hamas. He was described as a key figure responsible for compiling operational intelligence and maintaining situational awareness across the Gaza Strip.
The IDF said Shambari played a significant role in gathering intelligence on Israeli forces and was involved in directing and executing attacks. It also alleged that he had an active role in planning Hamas’s October 7 attack, which marked a major escalation in the conflict.
In a statement, the Israeli Air Force said the operation was carried out in coordination with ground forces under the Southern Command and the Shin Bet internal security agency. The military added that Shambari was considered an immediate threat to its forces operating in the region.
Meanwhile, Gaza’s civil defence agency reported that at least four people were killed and six others injured in a drone strike in the al-Rimal area of Gaza City. Local sources claimed that among those killed were a Hamas commander and his son, although details remain unverified.
The Israeli military said operations would continue in the region to neutralise threats and ensure the safety of its forces.
The development comes amid ongoing tensions and military operations in Gaza, with both sides reporting casualties and continued hostilities.
