ALBAWABA- The Israeli military has assassinated Naji Abu Saif, also known as Abu Hamza, the official spokesperson of the Al-Quds Brigades, the military wing of the Islamic Jihad Movement, in a targeted airstrike on Gaza.
In a statement mourning his death, the Islamic Jihad Movement declared that Abu Hamza's assassination "will only strengthen our determination to defend our people and their rights against Israeli aggression."
Meanwhile, the Director of the UN Human Rights Office in the Palestinian Territories condemned the ongoing violence, describing the images of mutilated children's bodies and shrouded corpses as "unacceptable."
He further emphasized that the deliberate targeting of civilians constitutes a war crime and must be halted immediately.
The U.S. National Security Council Spokesperson continued to justify Israel’s military campaign, blaming Hamas for choosing war and refusing to extend the ceasefire.
This statement comes despite Israel resuming its attacks in Gaza after signing a ceasefire deal in January, brokered by Qatar and Egypt.
According to the U.S. Mission to the United Nations, Washington remains fully supportive of Israel’s next steps and insists that Hamas must release the remaining hostages. The U.S. also pledged to work alongside Arab partners toward a long-term resolution to the conflict.
In contrast, Russia’s Deputy Representative to the United Nations warned that the Israeli army is preparing for a large-scale ground operation in Gaza.
He criticized Israel for neglecting the protection of civilians, stating that safeguarding non-combatants is "not among the principles or methods of the Israeli army."
He further accused Israel of worsening the humanitarian crisis by refusing to provide for the basic needs of the Palestinian people under occupation.