Targeted Strike by IDF Takes Out Senior Hamas Leader
On Saturday, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) reported a significant development in their ongoing operations against Hamas in Gaza. A precise airstrike in the Sabra neighborhood of Gaza City successfully eliminated Hakham Muhammad Issa Al-Issa, who has been identified as a pivotal Hamas leader and a key architect behind the October 7 terrorist assault on Israeli civilians.
According to the IDF, Al-Issa was not just any foot soldier; he was one of the founding figures of Hamas’ military wing and had a crucial role in the group’s military strategies. He oversaw the force build-up and was instrumental in the planning and execution of the October 7 massacre. His last known position was as Head of Combat Support Headquarters within Hamas’ military apparatus.
ELIMINATED: Hakham Muhammad Issa Al-Issa—one of the founders of Hamas’ military wing.
Issa led Hamas’ force build-up, training, and planned the October 7 massacre. As Head of Combat Support, he advanced aerial & naval attacks against Israelis.
The IDF & ISA will… pic.twitter.com/pzf7DgQc19
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) June 28, 2025
Previously, Issa was at the forefront of Hamas’ military enhancements in the Gaza Strip, not only founding its military wing but also serving as the Head of the Training Headquarters and as a member of Hamas’ General Security Council.
His involvement in orchestrating the brutal events of October 7 cannot be overstated. Throughout the ongoing conflict and particularly in recent days, Issa held the significant role of Head of the Combat Support Headquarters, where he was responsible for advancing aerial and naval assaults against both Israeli civilians and IDF personnel operating within Gaza.
In parallel to his military operations, he was also engaged in efforts to restore Hamas’ organizational structures that had suffered damage during the conflict.
Hakham Muhammad Issa Al-Issa was regarded as a crucial repository of tactical knowledge, being one of the last remaining senior Hamas figures in Gaza who had occupied high-ranking roles prior to the tumultuous events of October 7, 2023.
The IDF, in conjunction with the Israel Security Agency (ISA), has asserted its commitment to continue targeting and eliminating all individuals involved in the planning and execution of the October 7 massacre.
