Israeli strike kills five, including four women, in Gaza, health officials say

On a Saturday morning, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) launched an operation aimed at assassinating Ali al-Amoudi, who was poised to succeed Yahya Sinwar as the leader of Hamas in the Gaza Strip. The IDF's strategy involved deploying helicopters and tanks to target suspicious locations near the Yellow Line. The operation ultimately revealed that Amoudi was the primary target.

Ali al-Amoudi, previously incarcerated for 20 years, was released as part of the 2011 Gilad Schalit prisoner exchange. Following his release, he quickly rose through the ranks of Hamas, becoming a key figure in the political bureau and serving as the head of Yahya Sinwar's office. Amoudi and Sinwar had been imprisoned together, forming a strong bond during their time in captivity. It was in this role that Amoudi began to prepare for the potential leadership vacuum following Sinwar's death.

Sinwar's demise in October 2024 left a significant leadership void within Hamas. Several senior Hamas officials, who had remained active during the interim, stepped up to fill the gap. Amid this turmoil, Ali al-Amoudi emerged as the de facto leader of the Gaza Strip, garnering influence and control without drawing much public attention. On July 2025, he formally assumed the position of leader, marking a new era in Hamas' governance.