IDF and Shin Bet Kill Senior Hamas Operative Behind October 7 Attack and Hostage Taking

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Shin Bet have eliminated Adham Ibrahim Shaaban Nesman, the head of operations for Hamas's Gaza City Brigade, in an airstrike in Gaza City on July 20, 2026. Nesman was responsible for directing the October 7, 2023, attack into Israel and held at least seven Israeli hostages, including Emily Damari. Over the years, Nesman held several senior positions within Hamas, including intelligence officer and commander of the Shati Battalion, and recently led efforts to rebuild Hamas's military capabilities by training militants and distributing weapons, violating the ceasefire agreement.

During the recent conflict, Nesman played an active role in managing Israeli hostages such as Romi Gonen, Emily Damari, Ziv and Gali Berman, Eitan Mor, Matan Angrist, and Omri Miran. Emily Damari, a survivor of Hamas captivity, responded on Instagram, condemning Nesman and other Hamas leaders, stating that those involved in massacres against Jews will never be able to hide and will face justice. She referenced Israel's historical response after the Munich massacre, emphasizing that perpetrators of such atrocities will be held accountable.

The IDF highlighted that Nesman's elimination is part of ongoing efforts to dismantle Hamas's operational capabilities and bring justice for the victims of the October 7 attack. Damari described the killing as a step toward justice, not only revenge, underscoring the principle that such crimes must never go unpunished.