The Israeli military has confirmed the death of Marwan Issa, the deputy commander of Hamas’s military wing in Gaza, in an Israeli airstrike earlier this month. This news comes after a senior U.S. official, Jake Sullivan, had previously informed reporters of Mr. Issa’s death.
Mr. Issa, one of the highest-ranking officials in Hamas, was targeted along with another senior Hamas official in an underground compound in central Gaza. His death marks a significant milestone in Israel’s campaign to eliminate the Hamas leadership in Gaza.
Despite Mr. Issa’s importance within Hamas, experts caution that his death may not have a devastating impact on the group’s leadership structure. Israel has previously targeted and killed Hamas leaders, only to see them quickly replaced.
Mr. Issa, who served as a deputy to the leader of Hamas’s military wing, was described as a key strategist and liaison between the group’s military and political leaders. His death, while a blow to the Qassam Brigades, is not expected to lead to the collapse of Hamas.
Known for maintaining a low profile, Mr. Issa was involved in prisoner swap negotiations between Israel and Hamas and was considered a master of data on prisoners. His death has left a void in Hamas’s leadership, but experts believe the group will quickly recover.
Born in central Gaza in 1965, Mr. Issa spent time in Israeli and Palestinian Authority prisons. He was involved in planning attacks on Israeli settlements and military bases, showcasing his role as a key figure within Hamas.
While Mr. Issa’s death is a significant development, it is unlikely to have a long-lasting impact on Hamas’s operations. The group has a history of resilience in the face of leadership losses, and Mr. Issa’s replacement is expected in due time.
