Conflict in the Middle East: Israeli Military Announces Plans to Strike Hamas Commanders Overseas
In the Middle East, tensions continue to escalate as Israel carries out targeted attacks on key figures in Palestinian and Lebanese militant groups.
On August 30th, the Israeli army claimed to have eliminated Abou Obeida, the spokesperson of the armed branch of the Palestinian movement in Gaza. The announcement was made by Israel's Minister of Defense, Israel Katz. However, Hamas did not immediately react to the news. It's worth noting that earlier in May, Israel claimed to have killed Mohammed Sinouar, the chief of Hamas in Gaza.
In a separate incident, the Israeli army bombed Hezbollah's infrastructure in the Beaufort Ridge area in southern Lebanon on Sunday morning. The bombed infrastructure belonged to the Iran-backed Shia movement.
Meanwhile, efforts to break the illegal blockade of Gaza are ongoing. The Global Sumud Flotilla, consisting of around 20 boats, set sail from Barcelona on Sunday afternoon. Swedish activist Greta Thunberg is among the personalities on board. MPs Thomas Portes and Marie Mesmeur, along with MEP Emma Fourreau, will also join the flotilla, which aims to deliver humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.
Unfortunately, the situation in Gaza remains dire. The announcement of the death of Idan Shtivi brings the total number of Israeli hostages held in the Gaza Strip to 48 people. Shtivi was killed during the October 7 attack on the Nova festival and his body was recovered by the Israeli army on Saturday evening. It's important to note that Mohammed Sinouar, the brother of Yahya Sinouar, who was a key figure in Hamas, was killed by Israel in October 2024. Yahya Sinouar was described as the main architect of the October 7 attacks.
In a statement on August 31st, the Israeli army announced that it targeted Hamas leaders abroad. However, the specific names of the targeted leaders have not been disclosed. Eyal Zamir, the chief of staff of the Israeli army, declared that most Hamas leaders are abroad and Israel will also reach them. He emphasised that Hamas cannot hide anywhere as the Israeli forces intensify their operations.
As the situation in the Middle East continues to evolve, it's crucial to remember the humanitarian aspect of the conflict. The Global Sumud Flotilla, and similar efforts, strive to bring much-needed aid to the people of Gaza, who have been suffering under the blockade for far too long.
