Israeli Forces Kill Senior Hamas Commander in Jenin Refugee Camp Airstrike

In a precise joint operation early Thursday, Israeli security agencies including the Shin Bet, Military Intelligence, and the IDF eliminated Qais Bitawi, a senior Hamas operative in the Jenin refugee camp. Bitawi, a relative of a previously killed terror commander, was targeted in an airstrike along with two aides, with weapons found in their vehicle. The operation was led by the IDF's Menashe Brigade and involved intelligence coordination from Shin Bet and Military Intelligence.

Bitawi was actively involved in orchestrating, funding, and executing severe attacks against Israeli civilians and security forces. Intelligence reports reveal he maintained extensive connections with senior Hamas figures in Gaza and abroad and was responsible for terror infrastructure in Jenin dismantled during Operation Iron Wall. Security officials emphasized that Bitawi posed a significant threat to residents of Judea and Samaria and to Israeli forces operating in the area.

This targeted killing follows a series of recent IDF operations against senior militants in the West Bank and Gaza. The defense establishment reiterated its commitment to continue decisive actions to thwart terrorism and protect Israeli citizens. The operation sends a clear message to terror groups that those involved in planning and carrying out attacks against Israelis will be relentlessly pursued and neutralized.