Israel has stepped up its military operations in Gaza, with the IDF and Shin Bet announcing the killing of two suspected weapons smugglers in strikes in Khan Younis. The two men, identified as Basel Nabil Abd al-Rahman Kashta and Ahmad Raja al-Shaer, were allegedly involved in smuggling weapons and military equipment into the Gaza Strip, according to Israeli authorities. The IDF said the strikes were part of ongoing efforts to disrupt Hamas’ weapons supply chains, military infrastructure and funding networks. Israel maintains that these operations are aimed at preventing Hamas from rebuilding its military capabilities and re-establishing its presence in Gaza. WATCH

Israel has eliminated two Hamas commanders accused of involvement in the October 7, 2023, attacks, as the IDF intensifies its operations against Hamas operatives across Gaza. The latest strikes have targeted senior figures linked to hostage abductions, attacks on Israeli troops and civilians, and efforts to rebuild Hamas's military capabilities. The Israel Defense Forces identified Mumen Ahmad Salameh Al-Ay as the Hamas Gaza City Brigade commander and an aide to senior military officials. According to the Israeli military, Al-Ay was accused of holding hostages in Gaza City during the war and planning attacks against Israeli forces and civilians amid alleged ceasefire violations. The IDF has not disclosed the identities of the hostages he was accused of holding. WATCH