In a targeted counterterrorism operation in Gaza today, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the elimination of the grandson of senior Hamas official Khalil al-Hayya—a longtime leader within the terror group’s political and military wings. While the grandson’s exact identity and position remain under review, Israeli defense sources have confirmed that he was an active participant in Hamas’ military operations.
This targeted strike is not only another blow to Hamas’ deeply embedded terror infrastructure but also a direct message: anyone tied to terrorism—regardless of family connections—is a legitimate target when they take up arms against the Jewish state.
Khalil al-Hayya
Al-Hayya currently serves as deputy chairman of Hamas’ Political Bureau and has long been involved in both its political maneuvering and terrorist orchestration. He was elected to the Palestinian Legislative Council in 2006 and has since used his platform to justify violence and advance Hamas’ genocidal agenda. Since the October 7 massacre—the worst atrocity against Jews since the Holocaust—he has publicly praised the slaughter of Israeli civilians and called for more attacks.
His role extends far beyond politics. Al-Hayya has acted as a key negotiator for hostage deals and ceasefire talks, all while encouraging Hamas to continue its campaign of terrorism, proving that there is no division between Hamas’ “political” and “military” arms.
Not the First Relative to Be Targeted
This is not the first time a family member of a senior Hamas leader has been eliminated. Over the past months, Israel has neutralized multiple sons, nephews, and relatives of Hamas commanders—individuals who, far from being innocents, actively participated in terror planning, logistics, and combat. These actions reflect Israel’s policy: there is no immunity for those who join terror, even if they bear prominent last names.
Operation Might and Sword: Turning Up the Heat on Hamas
This latest strike is part of Operation Might and Sword, launched on March 18, 2025. The IDF has since eliminated over 400 terrorists in the opening wave alone and continues its offensive to decapitate Hamas’ command structure and dismantle its war-making capabilities.
Over 250 terrorists have been neutralized in recent weeks—including senior figures involved in the October 7 massacre, tunnel warfare, rocket operations, and hostage-taking. The IDF continues to rely on precision surveillance and advanced intelligence to minimize civilian casualties while ensuring that those involved in terror are brought to justice.
No Sanctuary for Terrorist Families
As long as Hamas uses its own children and relatives as fighters, commanders, and operatives, they will be treated as combatants, not civilians. Today’s elimination serves as a clear warning: lineage offers no protection for those who take part in mass murder and terrorism.
Israel will continue to pursue every individual complicit in Hamas’ genocidal campaign until the terror regime is completely dismantled. Whether through drones, commandos, or targeted airstrikes—justice will find them.
