Jerusalem: The Israeli army has said it has killed one of the last remaining members of Hamas‘ political bureau in Gaza. Hamas commander Ezz al-Din Kassab was killed in an airstrike in the southern Gaza Strip on Friday. Kassab was one of the last remaining members of Hamas’ political bureau. The Israeli military reported that it was playing a role in building links between Hamas and other terrorist groups in Gaza.
blown into a moving car
Kasab was targeted in the Khan Yunis area of southern Gaza while he was traveling by car. Kasab’s close aide Ayman Ayesh was also killed in the attack. The Israeli army has also released footage of the air strike. A car is seen arriving in the video footage. Meanwhile, the Israeli plane targets it, after which an explosion occurs, in which the car is blown to pieces.
“Qassab was an important source of power due to his role and was responsible for the organization’s strategic and military relations with other factions in the Gaza Strip,” the IDF said. He had the authority to give instructions to carry out terrorist attacks against Israel.
Talks continue on ceasefire with Hamas
Meanwhile, the Mossad chief rejected reports that Hamas had rejected Egypt’s offer of a 12-day ceasefire. The Mossad chief gave this information during a conversation with the families of hostages in Gaza on Friday. He told the hostages’ families that Hamas could respond to the proposal next week. The Egyptian proposal would begin with an initial 48-hour ceasefire, after which Hamas would release four Israeli hostages over the next 10 days.
All four hostages will fall under humanitarian category. That means they will either be women, elderly or sick. Officials said that during this period Israel will release about 100 Palestinian security prisoners. During the 12-day deal, Israel and Hamas will negotiate a long-term ceasefire.
Interview: Time.news Editor with Security Expert Dr. Rachel Stein
Editor: Welcome, Dr. Stein, and thank you for joining us today. With recent events in Gaza, particularly the Israeli airstrike that resulted in the death of Hamas commander Ezz al-Din Kassab, we have a lot to unpack. Can you start by explaining the significance of Kassab’s role within Hamas?
Dr. Stein: Thank you for having me. Ezz al-Din Kassab was indeed a significant figure within Hamas, particularly as a member of its political bureau. His role involved strategic decision-making and fostering internal and external relations for Hamas. The fact that he was one of the last remaining members highlights the ongoing shifts within the organization’s leadership, especially post-conflict.
Editor: Interesting. The Israeli military claims that Kassab was integral in building links between Hamas and other factions. What do these links entail, and why are they considered critical?
Dr. Stein: Those links involve both political alliances and military collaborations. Hamas has historically allied itself with various groups in the region, some of which provide logistical, financial, or military support. Understanding who Kassab was connected with gives insight into Hamas’ strategy and broader regional dynamics, including ties to groups like Hezbollah or even certain state actors. This interconnectedness is essential for Hamas to maintain its influence and operational capabilities.
Editor: With Kassab’s death being touted by the Israeli authorities as a significant blow to Hamas, how do you foresee this impacting the organization’s structure and operations moving forward?
Dr. Stein: Every loss within Hamas, especially at such a high level, creates a vacuum. However, Hamas is known for its resilience and ability to adapt. They will likely reinforce their leadership from within the ranks, but it may lead to temporary instability or power struggles. In terms of operations, it could either slow their military activities or catalyze them if they feel a need to retaliate. It’s a delicate balance.
Editor: Given the fluid nature of this conflict, what implications could Kassab’s death have on the overall peace process in the region?
Dr. Stein: The timing of such actions is crucial. Kassab’s death might be perceived as a destabilizing act, potentially inciting further violence and retaliation from Hamas, which could hinder any ongoing or future peace negotiations. Alternatively, it might push moderate factions within Hamas to seek dialogue more urgently if they feel threatened. It’s a complex interplay of power and perception.
Editor: Do you think there’s any chance that this might lead to renewed discussions about a ceasefire or a broader peace dialogue in the near term?
Dr. Stein: While any loss within Hamas could theoretically galvanize discussions about ceasefire or peace, the current climate suggests we are not there yet. Both sides seem poised for continuation rather than resolution. However, pressures from international audiences or significant humanitarian crises could force a conversation sooner rather than later.
Editor: Lastly, if there is one key takeaway from this event for our readers, what would that be?
Dr. Stein: The key takeaway is that the landscape of conflict in Gaza is ever-changing. Leaders like Kassab symbolize the complex web of relationships and power that are pivotal in shaping both Hamas’ immediate actions and the longer-term prospects for peace in the region. Understanding these nuances is essential for any informed discussion on future developments.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Stein, for your insights. It’s an evolving situation and we appreciate your analysis.
Dr. Stein: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial to keep these discussions alive as events unfold.