Israeli Forces Kill Senior Hamas Operative in Jenin Refugee Camp Airstrike

Israeli security forces eliminated Qais Bitawi, a senior Hamas operative responsible for terror activities in the Jenin refugee camp, in a targeted airstrike on August 28, 2026. The operation was a joint effort by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), Shin Bet, and the Yamam counterterrorism unit, led by the Menashe Brigade. The airstrike targeted Bitawi and two aides outside a building under construction, killing all three.

Bitawi had previously led Hamas operations in the Jenin refugee camp before the group was dismantled during Operation Iron Wall. According to the IDF and Shin Bet, he was involved in planning, funding, and directing numerous attacks against Israeli civilians and security forces. He also maintained connections with Hamas elements in Gaza and abroad.

Following the strike, security forces recovered weapons from the vehicle used by the cell. The operation was conducted with intelligence coordination from Shin Bet and Military Intelligence (AMAN). Qais Bitawi is related to Nour Bitawi, a former Hamas commander in Jenin who was killed by Israeli forces in May 2025. This airstrike continues a series of Israeli counterterrorism actions in the Menashe Brigade area, with the previous strike occurring in October 2025 in the village of Qud.