Amidst the ongoing Israeli bombardment of Gaza, tragedy struck the family of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh as three of his sons were martyred in the attacks on Wednesday, coinciding with Eidul Fitr.
According to reports from Hamas media, Ismail Haniyeh's sons - Hazem, Muhammad, and Amir - were traveling in their car when it was targeted by Israeli airstrikes in the al-Shati refugee camp in Gaza. Additionally, two grandsons were also martyred, while three others sustained injuries.
Abdul Salam Hania, Ismail Haniyeh's eldest son, confirmed the tragic news on social media, expressing gratitude for the martyrdom of his brothers. This incident is not the first time that Israel has targeted Haniyeh or his family, as his house was previously bombed and destroyed in November.
Confirming the heartbreaking loss, Ismail Haniyeh spoke to Al Jazeera TV, denouncing the Israeli targeting of his family members. He asserted Hamas's steadfastness in the face of aggression, vowing not to yield to pressure or concede on their demands.
Expressing profound grief, Haniyeh emphasized the value of his sons' sacrifice, noting that their blood, along with that of other martyrs, fuels the spirit of resistance and hope among the Palestinian people.
Critically condemning Israel's actions as a violation of international law, Haniyeh accused Israel of perpetuating a campaign of mass destruction and displacement in Gaza.
This tragic incident is not the first time that Israel has targeted Hamas leadership or their families. Ismail Haniyeh, who rose to prominence in the 1990s, has been a key figure in Hamas's leadership, assuming various roles including Prime Minister of Palestine in 2006.
Despite the loss suffered by his family, Ismail Haniyeh remains resolute in leading Hamas's political activities from outside Gaza, advocating for the rights and dignity of the Palestinian people in the face of adversity.
Ismail Haniyeh, a prominent figure in Hamas, rose to prominence in the 1990s and played a significant role in the organization under the leadership of Sheikh Ahmed Yassin.
He later served as the Prime Minister of Palestine after Hamas' electoral victory in 2006. Currently, Haniyeh leads Hamas from outside Gaza, overseeing the organization's political activities.
