Israeli forces launched a series of intense airstrikes across western Gaza City on Tuesday night, targeting a senior Hamas military figure in what Israeli officials described as a major assassination operation.


The strikes heavily hit the Rimal neighborhood, one of Gaza City’s busiest commercial areas and often described as the city’s downtown district. Witnesses reported violent explosions, helicopter activity overhead, and a massive fire belt attack that shook the area during the crowded night before Eid, when markets and streets were filled with civilians.


One of the strikes reportedly targeted the Ajjour building west of Gaza City with five missiles, according to local reports. The building is surrounded by dozens of shops and commercial centers. Injured civilians were transferred to Al-Shifa Hospital following the bombardment, while panic spread across nearby neighborhoods as multiple explosions continued throughout the night.


In a joint statement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed that the operation targeted the newly appointed commander of Hamas’ military wing in Gaza, whom Israel accuses of involvement in the October 7 attack.


Israeli officials stated that the strike was carried out using bunker-buster missiles designed to penetrate fortified underground infrastructure. Military helicopters were also reported flying intensively over Gaza City during and after the bombardment, while additional strikes were reported in other parts of western Gaza.


The Israeli statement praised the army and the Shin Bet security agency for what it described as continued efforts to eliminate those involved in the October 7 attack, declaring that Israel would continue pursuing everyone connected to the operation.


However, shortly after the announcement, Israel’s Channel 15 reported that initial estimates suggest the assassination attempt may have failed. No official confirmation has yet been issued regarding the fate of the targeted figure.


The bombardment came as thousands of Palestinians in Gaza were preparing for Eid under catastrophic humanitarian conditions, with widespread displacement, destroyed infrastructure, overcrowded shelters, and ongoing shortages of food and medical supplies.


Residents described the strikes as among the most violent attacks carried out in Gaza City in recent days, warning that the densely populated market area was filled with civilians at the time of the bombardment.