Israeli forces have killed Aysar al-Saadi, the head of the Hamas network in the West Bank, during a raid. The military stated that al-Saadi was killed in a gunfight alongside another Hamas operative, while three other members of the group were arrested.
The Gaza-based militant group, which has expanded its presence in the occupied West Bank, acknowledged al-Saadi’s death but stated that it would not alter its commitment to fighting Israel.
“The Gaza-based militant group, which has also built up a powerful presence in the occupied West Bank, confirmed the death of al-Saadi but said it would not affect its commitment to fight Israel.”
The operation in the West Bank, which began in January following a ceasefire agreement brokered by Qatar and Egypt, is one of the most extensive Israeli military actions in the region in recent years. The escalation follows a rise in violence since the Gaza war erupted in 2023.
Thousands of Israeli troops have advanced through refugee camps in Jenin and other northern West Bank cities, including Tulkarm and Tubas. The raids have resulted in the demolition of homes and infrastructure, forcing tens of thousands of residents to flee with only what they could carry.