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Source: https://www.ynetnews.com/opinions-analysis/article/bk68qzszzg#autoplay
Behind Israel's Decision to Target Senior Hamas Figure
(Ynet News) Ron Ben-Yishai - The decision to carry out a targeted killing of a senior Hamas figure in the heart of Gaza City during a ceasefire was highly unusual. Israeli officials cite several factors behind the decision. First, the strike eliminated one of the central architects of the Oct. 7 attack. Ra'ad Sa'ad played a key role in building Hamas's military capabilities, founding its military academy and shaping combat doctrines, including urban warfare, artillery operations, and large-scale raids such as the Oct. 7 massacre. Second, the operation sent a message to Washington and regional mediators that Israel will not accept any scenario in which Hamas remains a dominant military or governing force in Gaza, even during a ceasefire. Despite U.S. calls for restraint, Israeli officials have made clear they are unwilling to tolerate signs of renewed freedom of movement or consolidation of power by Hamas terrorists. Third, by striking Sa'ad in a highly visible manner, Israel sought to send a clear warning to senior Hamas figures that no ceasefire, diplomatic process, or international pressure will allow them to remain in Gaza as an armed or governing authority. Israel is signaling that Hamas's survival as a military force in Gaza remains a red line for Jerusalem.