IDF Strikes Khan Younis, Eliminates Resistance Committees Commander

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced the elimination of a senior commander from the Popular Resistance Committees in an airstrike in Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip. According to the IDF, Ramadan Muhammad Ashahada Diab led the organization's unit in Khan Younis and was accused of participating in recent attacks against Israeli soldiers and civilians. The IDF stated that Diab was also involved in rebuilding Hamas's military capabilities, which they consider a "systematic violation of the ceasefire."

The Popular Resistance Committees are described as the third-largest militant group in Gaza, following Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad. Members of the group reportedly participated in the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel. The IDF noted that the organization, previously linked to Fatah, now maintains ties with Hamas, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

Separately, high-level Israeli sources believe Hamas is considering resuming hostilities and might initiate an attack on Israel before the IDF launches a major operation. These sources assess that Hamas retains the capability for an attack, though possibly not on the scale of October 7. Potential scenarios include strikes on military targets, abductions of soldiers, and incursions into Israeli communities. Reports to the Israeli cabinet indicate Hamas has intensified preparations for renewed conflict, strengthening forces, replenishing arsenals, and relocating weapons, including to civilian areas.