IDF kills Hamas operative who posed as an Al Jazeera journalist in central Gaza

The IDF Spokesperson reported this morning (Thursday) that IDF forces under Southern Command yesterday killed in the central Gaza Strip Muhammad Samir Muhammad Washah, a key operative in Hamas's rocket and weapons production directorate. According to the statement, Washah had planned to carry out terror attacks against IDF forces operating in the area and posed a real and immediate threat to troops on the ground.

During the war, Washah worked on developing and producing various weapons, including drones and rockets, and was also involved in transferring weapons within the Gaza Strip. His activities, the statement said, significantly contributed to Hamas's force buildup and the organization's ability to carry out terror attacks against Israel.

It was also noted that Washah operated under the cover of a journalist, exploiting that alleged identity to advance terror activity. The IDF statement stressed: "As previously revealed by the IDF Spokesperson, Washah operated under the cover of an Al Jazeera journalist and exploited this identity to promote terror activities against IDF forces and the State of Israel".

The IDF emphasized that prior to the strike, steps were taken to minimize harm to civilians, including the use of precision munitions, aerial surveillance, and additional intelligence information.

It was further stated that IDF forces under Southern Command continue to be deployed in the area in accordance with the agreement and will continue to act to remove any immediate threat to the forces.

(Photo: IDF Spokesperson's Unit)