Abu Younis played a central role in directing terrorist operations against Israeli civilians and soldiers.
By United with Israel Staff
The IDF and Shin Bet eliminated the commander of Hamas’ Rafah Brigade in an overnight airstrike in southern Gaza, the Israeli military announced Sunday.
Samir Mahmoud Hassan Abu Younis, a senior commander in Hamas’ military wing, had led the Rafah Brigade for approximately two months after his predecessor, Nael Abu Obeid, was eliminated on September 15.
Before assuming command of the brigade, Abu Younis held several senior positions within the terrorist organization, including deputy commander of the Rafah Brigade and commander of its Tel Sultan Battalion.
According to the IDF, Abu Younis played a central role in directing terrorist operations against Israeli civilians and soldiers.
He was also involved in efforts to rebuild the Rafah Brigade’s military capabilities and restore Hamas’ fighting strength following the severe losses inflicted on the terrorist organization during the war.
The elimination comes amid continued Israeli operations against Hamas terrorists attempting to regroup and rebuild their military infrastructure in Gaza.
In a separate announcement, the IDF and Shin Bet revealed that they had eliminated more than 10 terrorists in strikes across the Gaza Strip over the past week, including Hamas operatives who participated in the October 7, 2023, massacre.
Among those killed was Mohammed Atta Zaki Kishawi, a member of Hamas’ elite Nukhba force who infiltrated Israel during the October 7 attacks.
Another terrorist, Hani Ibrahim Said Khudari, served as a supply platoon commander in Hamas’ Sabra Battalion and also participated in the October 7 invasion.
Israeli forces additionally eliminated Ali Naim Aish Abu Asai, an operative involved in weapons production at a Hamas military manufacturing workshop. The IDF and Shin Bet destroyed the facility.
According to the military, the terrorists had been planning attacks against Israeli troops and civilians while working to restore Hamas’ capabilities in systematic violation of the ceasefire.
The IDF said its forces remain deployed in southern Gaza in accordance with the agreement and will continue operating to eliminate immediate threats.
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