Was the Top Commander of Hamas's Naval Police Killed in Gaza?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Yousef's elimination marks a significant blow to Hamas's maritime capabilities.
- The IDF's airstrike is part of the ongoing Operation 'Gideon Chariots II'.
- The Israeli Navy is collaborating closely with ground forces and the Air Force.
- Chief of Staff Zamir acknowledged the IDF's sacrifices during Rosh Hashanah.
- Hamas's operational strategies are under continuous scrutiny and response from Israeli forces.
Jerusalem, September 22 (NationPress) - The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) declared on Monday that an airstrike successfully targeted and eliminated the deputy commander of Hamas's naval police in Gaza. The IDF reported that Yousef was directly involved in the horrific attack and massacre executed by Hamas on October 7. Throughout the conflict in the Gaza Strip, he orchestrated ambushes aimed at IDF troops and played a key role in safeguarding the organization’s resources in the region.
According to an official statement from the IDF, his removal represents a considerable blow to the operational capabilities of Hamas’s maritime police, which is responsible for gathering intelligence on Israeli forces and enforcing maritime dominance for the military branch of the organization.
Since the commencement of Operation 'Gideon Chariots II', the Israeli Navy has been focused on dismantling the infrastructure and leadership of the Maritime Police, working in tight alignment with maneuvering forces and ensuring real-time operational circles in partnership with ground troops and the Air Force.
“The Navy’s 916th Squadron operatives play a crucial role in ground maneuvers within the Strip. The units provide sea-based fire support and swift closures of operational circles - from maritime, aerial, and terrestrial perspectives. Through collaborative efforts, the Israeli Navy has delivered intelligence guidance for the Israeli Air Force, facilitating a precise strike in the Central Camps,” the statement elaborated.
In a message delivered just before Rosh Hashanah, Chief of the Israeli General Staff Eyal Zamir expressed gratitude to IDF personnel across all sectors. “I want to extend the thanks of an entire nation, as it is because of your unwavering dedication that we can gather at the holiday table tonight, feeling secure and deeply appreciative of your sacrifices,” he stated.