Gaza City: The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the targeted destruction of a Hamas intelligence center in Gaza City on Sunday, striking a high-rise building reportedly used for terrorist operations and surveillance. The airstrike comes amid ongoing tensions in the region and marks a significant blow to Hamas’ operational capabilities.
According to the IDF, the multi-story building had been fortified with intelligence-gathering equipment and observation posts, allowing Hamas operatives to monitor Israeli troop movements. In addition, the structure was reportedly rigged with explosive devices to deter attacks. Prior to the operation, the IDF said that precautions were taken to protect nearby civilians, ensuring that Palestinian residents were evacuated safely before the strike.
Images released by the IDF on X (formerly Twitter) show the aftermath of the operation, with the building reduced to rubble. While the army did not release an official casualty count, military sources close to the operation indicated that at least 21 militants were likely killed during the strike. The identities of those targeted have not been publicly confirmed.
The demolition of the building is part of Israel’s broader strategy to neutralize Hamas’ command-and-control infrastructure in Gaza. Israeli officials emphasize that such operations aim to prevent attacks on civilians and soldiers, while attempting to minimize collateral damage in densely populated urban areas.
This strike underscores the persistent volatility in the region, as Hamas continues to maintain a network of intelligence and military positions within Gaza, and Israel remains vigilant in its defense operations.