Israel has intensified its targeted killings of senior Hamas leaders, including de facto Prime Minister Ismail Barhoum, aiming to disrupt the group’s governance in Gaza.

The strikes, following the end of a cease-fire, have killed multiple political and military figures, with Israel leveraging intelligence gathered during the truce.

While former Israeli officials argue these attacks weaken Hamas by forcing leaders into hiding, critics question their long-term impact.

The renewed fighting has led to over 600 deaths in Gaza, raising the overall war toll to more than 50,000, the Wall Street Journal has reported.

Meanwhile, Hamas has released a video of two Israeli hostages describing worsening conditions in captivity.

Written by B.C. Begley