Hamas Leader Killed While Hiding Among Civilians in Gaza Refugee Camp

Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have announced the Israeli Air Force (IAF) killed Hamas terrorist leader Hassam Shahwan during a strike in Gaza’s Khan Yunis humanitarian area.

“Shahwan was responsible for developing intelligence assessments in coordination with elements of Hamas’ military wing in attacks on the IDF in Gaza,” claimed the IDF. 

The attacks follow recent Hamas attacks on Southern Israel during New Year’s eve. 

According to the IDF, Hamas fired two rockets into civilian areas of Southern Israel during December 30th and 31st.

“Hamas continues to threaten our civilians and just fired 2 rockets, triggering sirens in southern Israel,” said the IDF. “We will continue operating to bring our 100 remaining hostages home and dismantle Hamas.”

The United Nations Relief Works Agency (UNRWA), which has frequently condemned military attacks on humanitarian zones, has not commented on the latest IDF strike. 

However, the United Nations’ Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), recently criticized Israel for similar attacks, specifically  those executed near hospitals. 

Israel has defended its actions by demonstrating terrorist forces are barricading themselves within hospitals and humanitarian zones, as Shawan did.

Moreover, UNRWA and OHCHR have been criticized by Israel and pro-Israel American lawmakers for being overly conciliatory towards Hamas. 

Last January, Israeli intelligence reports exposed connections between UNRWA and Hamas.

The US has granted hundreds of millions of dollars to UNRWA, which in 2022 reported a budget of $1.17 billion.

Since President Joe Biden took office, the US has granted UNRWA and associated entities over half a billion dollars in assistance.

After Hamas’ brutal attacks against Israel on October 7th, many American lawmakers called for the US to cut all aid to Gaza, including funds for UNRWA.

Despite pressure to cut aid, President Joe Biden maintained it after overturning former President Donald Trump’s administration’s decision to cease granting Gaza any US aid.