IDF Eliminates Senior Hamas Terrorist Linked to Nirim Massacre and Kidnapping of Colonel Asaf Hamami

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) carried out a precise targeted strike in southern Gaza on Tuesday, killing Hossam Shaafi, a senior terrorist in Hamas's East Khan Younis Battalion. Shaafi was directly involved in the brutal massacre at Kibbutz Nirim on October 7, 2023, and in the kidnapping of the bodies of Colonel Asaf Hamami and two of his soldiers, Staff Sergeant Tomer Achimas and Corporal Kiril Brodsky.

The successful operation was enabled by advanced intelligence work from the Gaza Division's Fire Center (143), the same division Hamami commanded as the Southern Brigade leader. Throughout the conflict, Shaafi continued to orchestrate terror attacks and endanger Israeli soldiers until he was identified and eliminated.

Colonel Hamami and his two soldiers were killed defending Kibbutz Nirim during the initial Hamas assault. Hamami, who was at Re'im Camp with his son when the attack began, immediately led his forces to the front lines, directing reinforcements and activating emergency squads, actions credited with saving many civilian lives. After the fierce battle, their bodies were abducted to Gaza, causing prolonged anguish for their families.

The soldiers’ bodies were gradually returned to Israel: Achimas and Brodsky on July 24, 2024, and Hamami on November 2, 2025. Hamami’s funeral featured heartfelt eulogies from the IDF Chief of Staff and family members, including his father, who recalled Hamami’s vow never to be captured alive, and his widow, who expressed bittersweet relief at his return.

The IDF confirmed that the elimination of Shaafi marks another step in holding Hamas accountable for the massacre and desecration. Israeli forces remain committed to neutralizing all threats and pursuing those responsible for the October 7 attacks. In recent months, the IDF has killed numerous senior Hamas operatives involved in planning terror activities, including two top Nukhba commanders in northern Gaza just days ago, underscoring Israel’s resolve to ensure full justice.