Israel says airstrikes kill Hamas finance operative and sniper

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said on September 25 that it had killed two operatives from Hamas’ military wing in airstrikes on the Gaza Strip.

According to the Israeli military, Jaber Makbal, who headed the Makbal financial and currency-exchange network, was killed in the Deir al-Balah area.

The IDF said the network was used to transfer millions of shekels in foreign currency for Hamas, with the funds allegedly used to pay militants, rebuild military infrastructure and prepare attacks.

In the Khan Younis area, the IDF said it had also killed Hassan al-Batta, an operative in Hamas’ sniper unit.

The Israeli military said both men had been involved in preparations for attacks against military personnel and efforts to restore Hamas’ combat capabilities. According to the IDF, such activities constituted a violation of the current ceasefire agreement.

The military said the airstrikes were carried out to prevent an immediate threat.

By Tamilla Hasanova