IDF eliminates Hamas official serving as Mayor of Deir al-Balah 

Israeli forces have confirmed the elimination of a senior Hamas operative who held the position of mayor in Deir al-Balah, marking a significant development in ongoing operations in Gaza.

The targeted strike, carried out tonight (Saturday evening) following air raid sirens in Ashkelon and the Gaza envelope region, killed Imad Jarou, who maintained dual roles as both city mayor and an active Hamas military operative, according to IDF and Shin Bet statements.

Intelligence officials say Jarou operated from a facility used for planning attacks against Israeli forces while simultaneously serving as the Chairman of the governmental emergency committee, the Mayor of Deir al-Balah and an active liaison with Hamas's military wing

"The operation was carried out with precise intelligence guidance from multiple agencies," an IDF spokesperson said, emphasizing that extensive measures were taken to minimize civilian casualties, including the use of precision munitions and real-time aerial surveillance.

The military reports that Jarou played a key role in Hamas governance while providing direct support to combat operations against Israeli forces.

Israeli officials stated that the strike targeted a building in the humanitarian area, accusing Hamas of systematically exploiting civilian infrastructure and humanitarian zones for military purposes in violation of international law.