Why Targeted Killings of Hamas Operatives Have Increased in Gaza

Security officials attribute the recent surge in targeted killings of Hamas operatives in the Gaza Strip to intensified efforts by the Shin Bet, led by its head David Zini. Zini is reportedly exerting significant pressure on the southern command and the agency's headquarters to expand intelligence gathering on senior figures, field commanders, and operatives involved in the October 7th attacks, some of whom crossed into Israel. Consequently, resources have been allocated, intelligence operations have been enhanced, and cooperation with the IDF has deepened, leading to increased attention and results.

"Almost daily, there is a targeted killing or an attempted killing of a Hamas operative or field commander," a security official told Walla. The reality for these senior Hamas members has drastically changed. The IDF now controls approximately 70% of Gaza, significantly reducing the areas where operatives can hide and operate. Extensive underground infrastructure and hiding places have been destroyed by the IDF, with remaining sites now viewed by Hamas as potential death traps, discouraging their use.

Furthermore, after nearly three years of intense fighting, there is a notable decline in the operational discipline of senior commanders. This has led to more above-ground assassinations, occurring while they are traveling or after meetings. The elimination of much of Hamas's military leadership has also resulted in less experienced replacements who are less adept at understanding the IDF's deceptive tactics in Gaza.

The intelligence community, spearheaded by the Shin Bet, has accumulated substantial intelligence throughout the war from open sources, captured documents, computers, and thousands of interrogations, providing critical insights into the enemy. The air force's readiness, the Southern Command's fire control center, and improved inter-agency communication have also enabled rapid targeting and engagement, with a focus on minimizing civilian casualties by using smaller munitions or delaying strikes until a more opportune moment.