The IDF spokesperson issued unusual evacuation calls ahead of a major offensive in Gaza. An assassination attempt on Muhammad Sinwar left only three senior Hamas military leaders remaining.
IDF Increases Pressure in Gaza
The IDF has escalated its military efforts in Gaza. Arabic-language IDF spokesperson, Lt. Col. Avichay Adraee, announced Wednesday evening that evacuation notices were issued for residents of several areas within Gaza City, including prominent civilian institutions like the Shifa Hospital, the Islamic University, and various schools across the city. The evacuation calls cited Hamas’s use of civilian facilities for terrorist activities.
In another dramatic move, a direct appeal was made to the residents of the upscale Rimal neighborhood in western Gaza City: “The IDF will strike in the area with force. For your safety – you are required to evacuate,” the statement read. The notice also aimed to stir public anger against Hamas, stating, “Responsibility for the evacuation and the suffering of civilians lies with the terrorist organizations, primarily Hamas.”
After the evacuation announcements – IDF attacks in Gaza. Watch:
אחרי הודעות הפינוי – צה"ל תוקף בעזה, בצמרת חמאס נותרו שלושה בכירים (צילום: שימוש לפי סעיף 27א לחוק זכויות יוצרים) pic.twitter.com/Sf3XfbnVwH
— דסק רגע (@deskrega) May 14, 2025
Attack Near European Hospital in Khan Yunis
Meanwhile, Palestinians reported a large-scale attack in the area of the European Hospital in Khan Yunis, where Mohammed Sinwar was believed to be located during the targeted strike. According to reports, the IDF deployed “fire belts”—an intensive attack method to create a fire barrier—around the compound. Local media indicated that the hospital had ceased operations, and its staff had been evacuated, suggesting preparations for further ground actions or continued strikes.
Hamas Leadership Under Fire: Only Three Senior Figures Remain
As the ground and aerial campaign expands, it remains uncertain whether the assassination attempt on Mohammed Sinwar, leader of Hamas’s military wing, was successful. If confirmed, only three senior commanders would remain within the organization’s military leadership in Gaza.
The highest-ranking remaining leader, potentially set to succeed Sinwar, is Izz al-Din al-Haddad (Abu Zuhayb), who commands at least six brigades. He is considered a central architect of the October 7 attack and has overseen various areas in Gaza over the years. Despite surviving multiple direct IDF attacks, he remains a key figure.
Another prominent leader is Raed Saad, known for his strategic role in planning and managing Hamas’s military infrastructure, including rockets, tunnels, and anti-tank operations. Saad was one of the masterminds behind the “Black Saturday” attack and has been targeted for assassination several times, including a failed attempt in June 2024.
The third figure is Muhammad Shabaneh (Abu Anas), commander of the Rafah Brigade. Unlike the other two, Shabaneh is considered more locally focused, operating exclusively in the southern area. He has also survived two direct attacks, including one on an underground facility in May 2024.
