New Delhi: In a devastating airstrike on the Gaza Strip, Ismail Haniya, a top leader of the Palestinian group Hamas, has suffered the loss of three of his sons. The attack, which occurred amidst ongoing tensions in the region, also claimed the lives of several of Haniya’s grandchildren.
Haniya, who resides in exile in Qatar, confirmed the tragic news during an interview with the Al-Jazeera satellite channel. He expressed that his sons were martyred in the struggle for the liberation of Jerusalem and the Al-Aqsa Mosque. In a poignant statement, Haniya declared that the deaths of his children are a testament to the sacrifices made by all citizens of Gaza.
Despite the personal loss, Haniya remains resolute, stating that such actions will not pressure Hamas into altering its stance. He criticized the targeting of leaders’ families as a misguided attempt by the enemy to weaken the Palestinian resolve.
The airstrike took place on Wednesday, hitting a vehicle in the al-Shati refugee camp in Gaza City. This incident adds to a series of attacks that have affected Haniya’s family, including an airstrike in October 2023 that resulted in the deaths of 14 family members.
The Palestinian media has also reported the death of Haniya’s grandson in the same attack, further underscoring the human toll of the ongoing conflict. The loss extends beyond Haniya’s immediate family, with reports indicating that a gunman was also killed in the al-Shati camp.
The situation in Gaza remains dire, with the region grappling with the aftermath of continued violence and loss. Haniya’s personal tragedy highlights the broader suffering endured by the people of Gaza in these turbulent times.
