In a significant escalation of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the Israeli military has confirmed the death of Samer Abu Daqqa, the head of Hamas’ aerial operations, following an airstrike conducted by Israeli warplanes. The announcement was made jointly by Israel’s military and the Shin Bet domestic security agency, revealing that the strike occurred in September. Abu Daqqa was reportedly involved in multiple drone attacks and had ascended to his role after the assassination of former Hamas aerial chief Asem Abu Rakaba by Israeli forces in October 2022.
Israeli security sources assert that Abu Daqqa played a pivotal role in orchestrating Hamas' aerial strategies, including the notorious paraglider and drone infiltrations that took place during a surprise attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. This attack resulted in over 1,200 fatalities and has since triggered an extensive retaliatory campaign by Israel in the Gaza Strip. As the conflict intensifies, the humanitarian toll continues to rise.
Gaza-based health authorities have reported that ongoing Israeli assaults have led to the deaths of 42,289 Palestinians, raising urgent concerns about civilian safety and humanitarian conditions in the region. The cycle of violence shows no signs of abating, with both sides suffering significant casualties. The international community is watching closely, as the situation remains volatile and the potential for further escalation looms large.
