IDF Kills Islamic Jihad Commander Who Held Israeli Hostage Rom Breslavski

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) eliminated Talal Jaber Muhammad Abd Al-Aal, a commander in the Islamic Jihad who was responsible for holding Israeli hostage Rom Breslavski in Gaza. Breslavski, who survived captivity, responded on social media to the killing, describing Abd Al-Aal as the person who ordered and personally carried out severe abuse against him during his imprisonment. Breslavski recounted that Abd Al-Aal, also known as Abu Youssef, physically assaulted him, including jumping on his neck while he was malnourished and spitting into his mouth while he was bound and near death.

According to the IDF, Abd Al-Aal led a terrorist cell that infiltrated Israeli territory and participated in the October 7 massacre. He was also involved in holding hostages, including Breslavski, throughout the conflict. Breslavski emphasized that Abd Al-Aal was the commander who managed the group that detained him for a year and gave orders to tie him up and torture him. He concluded his message with a direct condemnation, recalling a previous threat Abd Al-Aal made to pass a message to the Shin Bet and expressing that he should "enjoy hell." The targeted killing took place two days prior in southern Gaza.

This operation is part of ongoing Israeli efforts to dismantle militant leadership involved in attacks and hostage-taking during the recent escalation. Breslavski's testimony sheds light on the harsh conditions endured by hostages and the identities of those responsible for their mistreatment.