Gaza Herald – Azzam Al-Hayya, son of senior Hamas political figure Khalil al-Hayya, has succumbed to his injuries sustained in an Israeli airstrike east of Gaza City. The incident has drawn attention due to its timing during fragile ceasefire negotiations and continued attack activity across the Gaza Strip.
Local accounts state that the strike targeted an area in eastern Gaza City and resulted not only in Azzam’s killing but also in additional civilian casualties, including Hamza Al-Sharbasi, with several others reported injured. The event is part of a broader pattern of recurring airstrikes that continue despite the declared ceasefire framework agreed in late 2025.
Al-Hayya described the killing of his son as part of a wider strategy of pressure through Israeli force, arguing that Israel is using targeted attacks and escalation to influence political negotiations. He linked the incident to ongoing mediation efforts, saying that military attacks are being used to shape outcomes at the negotiating table rather than merely addressing security concerns.
He further stated that repeated violations of ceasefire understandings have undermined the agreement, citing continued killings, restrictions on humanitarian access, and disruptions at crossing points. According to his statements, such actions have been formally communicated to mediators and guarantor states, though he argues they have not resulted in effective enforcement or accountability.
Al-Hayya also emphasized that Hamas maintains its position on advancing ceasefire phases, provided that earlier commitments are fully implemented. He reiterated calls for international pressure, particularly from the United States, to ensure compliance with humanitarian and political obligations tied to the agreement.
The strike adds to ongoing concerns over the stability of the ceasefire and the broader trajectory of the conflict, as sporadic military operations continue alongside stalled political progress and worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza.
