Image Credit: Arab News
Haitham Balidi, a senior commander of the Qassam Brigades—the militant wing of Hamas—was confirmed dead following an Israeli drone strike on his vehicle near Tulkarem in the occupied West Bank. The early morning strike led to the deaths of Balidi and four other individuals, who were traveling with him and remain unidentified.
The Israeli military reported that the vehicle targeted was occupied by a “terrorist squad.” According to the Israeli Defense Forces, the strike was part of ongoing operations aimed at neutralizing threats in the region. Palestinian sources have corroborated that the vehicle was struck while carrying armed fighters, including Balidi, who was believed to be a leading figure in the Qassam Brigades.
Local medical sources indicated that the attack resulted in significant casualties, with one body received and the remains of four individuals identified as body parts. The strike has intensified existing tensions in the area, where Israeli forces are actively pursuing leaders of militant groups.
Reports from Palestinians on the ground highlight that this incident is part of a broader pattern of escalating Israeli military actions in the West Bank. Israeli forces have been conducting frequent raids, with approximately 40 operations reported daily across various cities, refugee camps, and villages, including Nablus, Jenin, Bethlehem, and Ramallah.
The situation remains fluid, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available. The ongoing conflict continues to impact daily life and infrastructure in the occupied territories, with significant damage to roads, water, and electricity lines reported in affected areas.