Overview

• The IDF and Israel Security Agency say a targeted strike in Gaza City on August 28 killed Hazem Awni Naeem.
• Israeli authorities assert Naeem held hostages Emily Damari, Romi Gonen and Naama Levy during their captivity in Gaza.
• The military describes him as a senior operative in the Gaza City brigade’s military intelligence and a close associate of commander Ezz al-Din Haddad.
• FDD’s Long War Journal identifies Naeem as the nephew of senior Hamas official Basem Naim based on family social-media posts mourning his death.
• The announcement follows Israel’s earlier killing of Muhammad Nasr Ali Quneita, another alleged captor of Damari, as calls persist for the return of remaining hostages.