The IDF and Shin Bet struck and eliminated Anas Mahmoud Ahmed Hamdan on Thursday in the Khan Younis area. A Hamas company commander, Hamdan played a central role in holding hostages in Gaza and facilitating their return to Israel. He also oversaw the terror organization’s propaganda operations in the Khan Younis Brigade. For years, including throughout the war, he served as the right-hand man to senior Hamas military leaders Mohammed Deif and Rafa’a Salama.
Throughout the war, Hamdan was directly involved in holding hostages and was responsible for documenting them during the release ceremonies. He also helped hold Avera Mengistu captive before the war. In recent months, Hamdan had been training terrorists and attempting to advance attacks against IDF forces and Israeli civilians. He posed a direct threat to Israeli forces operating in Gaza and was eliminated in precision airstrikes.
Hamdan’s elimination marks another step in Israel’s ongoing effort to close the circle on those responsible for the October 7 atrocities. Israeli forces have vowed to continue pursuing every terrorist involved until justice is served.