Daijiworld Media Network - Gaza

Gaza, Sep 24: Israel on Wednesday said its military killed Muhammad Abu Alwan, identified by Israeli authorities as the head of Hamas' finance department, in an airstrike in Khan Younis in southern Gaza.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz confirmed the killing in a joint statement, saying the operation targeted Hamas' financial network. The Israeli leaders praised the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Shin Bet for what they described as a precise operation.

Netanyahu and Katz said Israel would continue targeting Hamas commanders, operatives and sources of funding, and would seek to prevent the group from rebuilding its capabilities in Gaza.

According to Gaza medical sources cited by Reuters, two people were killed when a vehicle was struck in western Khan Younis, while two others were wounded. Hamas had not immediately commented on the Israeli claim.

The reported killing comes as Israel continues military operations targeting Hamas leadership, financial networks and infrastructure in Gaza.

Katz has also warned Hamas against attempting to abduct an Israeli soldier or civilian, saying such an incident would trigger further Israeli military action in Gaza.

The defence minister has further said Israel would not withdraw from the so-called Yellow Line in Gaza as long as Hamas remains in the territory and Gaza is not demilitarised.