As tensions continue to rise between Israel and Hamas amid cease-fire negotiations, Israeli airstrikes have killed three adult sons of Ismail Haniyeh, Hamas’ political leader. The Israel Defense Forces confirmed the deaths of Haniyeh’s sons—Amir, Mohammad, and Hazem—who were described as affiliated with Hamas’ military. The IDF claimed the men were on their way to carry out terrorist activities in Gaza when they were targeted in the airstrike.
Haniyeh confirmed the deaths of his sons to Al Jazeera, stating they were targeted while visiting relatives for the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr. He also claimed that some of his grandchildren were killed in the strike. The news of the strike comes as cease-fire negotiations continue in Cairo, with a proposal put forward by CIA Director Bill Burns being considered by both sides. Haniyeh denounced the attacks as Israel being “delusional” if they thought it would push Hamas to change its positions.
In addition to the deaths of Haniyeh’s sons, Hamas reportedly indicated they were unable to locate 40 living hostages that would need to be released as part of the proposed cease-fire deal. This raised concerns that more of the Israeli hostages taken on October 7 may be dead than previously thought. Haniyeh accused Israel of being driven by revenge and ignoring legal standards, stating that the blood of his children is not more valuable than the blood of Palestinian children.
The impact of the airstrikes on cease-fire talks remains unclear, with reports indicating that Hamas has shown little enthusiasm for the U.S.-backed proposal. Talks have reportedly been focused on Yahya Sinwar, the leader of Hamas’ military wing in Gaza, rather than Haniyeh. Haniyeh, who is based in Qatar, has been labeled a terrorist by Israel and the U.S., with accusations that he supports armed struggle against civilians.
As international pressure mounts against a potential Israeli ground invasion of the Gazan town of Rafah, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to proceed with the offensive. Despite warnings from world leaders, including President Joe Biden, about the high density of Palestinian refugees in the area, Netanyahu stated that Israel has set a date for the invasion and no force would stop it. The situation remains tense as both sides continue to navigate complex negotiations and escalating violence.
