Hamas cell leader eliminated as IDF expands op in Jenin 

The Israeli military intensified its operation against terrorism in northern Samaria overnight, expanding efforts into additional neighborhoods of Jenin. IDF forces, backed by Border Police and Shin Bet intelligence, targeted a Hamas terror network, culminating in the elimination of its leader, Isser Saadi, early Tuesday morning.

The operation kicked off with a precision raid by the Border Police undercover unit in Judea and Samaria, working alongside the IDF’s Menashe Brigade. Guided by Shin Bet intelligence, the forces aimed to apprehend Saadi, identified as the head of Hamas’s terror cell in the region. An exchange of fire erupted, during which the undercover team neutralized Saadi and another terrorist. Three additional suspects were detained.

As the operation unfolded, IDF troops fanned out across Jenin, deploying “Eitan” armored vehicles in a new neighborhood to secure the area. A subsequent search of the building where Saadi was holed up uncovered a cache of weapons, including an M-16 rifle, a handgun, and other combat gear. In a separate encounter, forces took out another armed terrorist posing an immediate threat.

The detained suspects and seized weapons were handed over to security forces for further investigation.