Israel Says It Killed New Hamas Military Chief, Expands Ground Operations in Lebanon

The Israeli military stated on the 27th that Mohammad Odeh, the new leader of Hamas's armed wing, was killed during a military operation in Gaza yesterday. A relative of Odeh confirmed his death to Reuters, stating that the funeral would be held in Gaza City after afternoon prayers. Hamas has not yet issued an official statement, but a statement from his family indicated that he died along with his wife and son. Gaza health officials reported that an Israeli airstrike destroyed the upper floors of an apartment building in the Rimal district of Gaza City, killing at least six people, including one woman, and injuring over 20 others. Rescue workers are currently searching the site for potential casualties. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated yesterday that Odeh served as the head of Hamas's intelligence division during the October 7, 2023, cross-border attack on Israel. Following the killing of Hamas military chief Izz al-Din al-Haddad on the 15th, Odeh was appointed as the new leader. Sources close to Hamas did not confirm the appointment but acknowledged he was seen as a likely successor to al-Haddad, as he was the head of military intelligence and possibly the only surviving member of the armed wing's leadership committee. Hours before this airstrike, Israel announced an expansion of its ground operations in Lebanon. Israel has been engaged in ongoing conflict with the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militia in Lebanon since late February. Additionally, Israel is intensifying military activities in the West Bank.