IDF and Shin Bet Target Senior Palestinian Islamic Jihad Commander in Gaza

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) confirmed on Tuesday the death of Anas Muhammad Saadi Masri, the commander of the northern sector of the rocket unit of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ). Masri was killed earlier this month in a precise strike executed by an IDF Air Force aircraft, guided by intelligence from multiple sources, including the Military Intelligence Directorate (Aman), the Shin Bet, and the Southern Command.

Masri, described as a key figure in PIJ, was responsible for planning and executing numerous terror operations targeting Israeli civilians and soldiers. Since the October 7th attacks, Masri had been overseeing rocket fire from northern Gaza into Israeli border communities and directing operatives launching rockets at Israeli territory.

The IDF emphasized that every effort was made to minimize civilian casualties during the strike, including the use of precision weaponry, extensive intelligence gathering, and aerial surveillance. The statement concluded that the IDF will continue to target anyone promoting or participating in terrorism against Israeli citizens as part of their ongoing operations in the region.

Palestinian Islamic Jihad, a terror group aligned with Hamas, is not only active in Gaza but also in the West Bank. In addition to conducting attacks against Israel, the group has been involved in escalating violence against Palestinian Authority forces in recent weeks.

The death of Masri marks another significant blow to PIJ's military leadership, yet the group remains active in both Gaza and the West Bank. As Israel’s security forces continue to target key terror operatives, they remain focused on preventing further violence and ensuring the safety of Israeli citizens.