An Israeli air strike in southern Gaza’s Khan Younis killed Hamas political leader Salah al-Bardaweel on March 23, Hamas officials said, as residents reported an escalation in the Israeli military campaign that began on March 18.
Pro-Hamas media said the airstrike killed Bardaweel, who is a member of the group’s political office, and his wife. Israeli officials had no immediate comment.
Taher Al-Nono, the media advisor of the Hamas leadership, mourned Bardaweel’s death in a post on his Facebook page.
Israel resumed significant strikes on Gaza on March 18, blaming Hamas, abandoning a ceasefire agreement that began on Jan 19 and ending almost two months of claim.
Explosions echoed throughout the north, central, and southern Gaza Strip in the early hours of March 23, as Israeli planes hit several targets in those areas.
In a statement, Hamas accused Israel of assassinating Bardaweel, whom it said was praying along with his wife, when an Israeli missile struck their tent shelter in Khan Younis.
“His blood, that of his wife and martyrs, will remain fueling the battle of liberation and independence. The criminal enemy will not break our determination and will,” said the group.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly said the main aim of the war is to destroy Hamas as a military and governing entity. He has said the aim of the new campaign is to force the group to give up remaining hostages.
Hamas’ de facto government head Essam Addalees and internal security chief Mahmoud Abu Watfa were among those killed by Israeli strikes on March 18, in addition to several other officials.
Palestinian health officials said at least 400 people, more than half of them women and children, were killed on the same day.
