Israel Kills Hamas Finance Chief in Khan Younis Strike

The Israel Defense Forces and the Israeli Security Agency killed Muhammad Abu Alwan, the head of Hamas' finance department, during a targeted operation in Khan Younis on September 23, 2026. The strike hit a vehicle in western Khan Younis, killing Abu Alwan and at least one other person. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz stated the operation is part of a broader strategy to dismantle Hamas' financial networks and infrastructure.

Beyond the targeted killing, Israeli forces conducted drone strikes in Deir al-Balah and Gaza City, demolished buildings east of Khan Younis, and fired artillery shells east of Gaza City. These actions occurred while a 2025 ceasefire remained in effect. Israel warned it would increase targeted strikes and order evacuations in areas used to launch drones, balloons, and kites. Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem accused Israel of using children's kites as a pretext for escalation and urged the UN Security Council to intervene.

These developments come as US-brokered ceasefire negotiations remain stalled over the disarmament of Hamas and the withdrawal of Israeli troops. Palestinian authorities report that over 73,000 people have been killed since the conflict began in October 2023, with more than 1,400 Palestinians killed since the ceasefire took effect.