Top Hamas leader involved in October 7 attack killed in Gaza: Israel
Synopsis
Israel’s military confirmed the killing of Hamza Wael Muhammad Asafah, a senior Hamas Nukhba Force commander involved in October 7 massacre and a February hostage release event. Asafah was eliminated in a targeted strike in central Gaza 2 weeks ago.
Israel confirmed it had eliminated the head of a Hamas Nukhba Force terror cell who participated in the October 7 massacre as well as a hostage release "ceremony," in February, the Israel Defense Forces said.
The IDF said Hamza Wael Muhammad Asafah, head of a Nukhba terrorist cell in Hamas' Deir-al Balah battalion, was killed two weeks ago in central Gaza.
"As part of his role in the terrorist organization, Asafah participated in the cynical hostage release ceremony of the returning Israeli hostages Eliyahu Sharabi, Ohad Ben-Ami, and Or Levy," the army said.
At least 1,180 people were killed, and 252 Israelis and foreigners were taken hostage in Hamas's attacks on Israeli communities near the Gaza border on October 7. Of the 59 remaining hostages, 36 are believed to be dead.