Israeli Airstrike Kills Son of Hamas Lead Negotiator, Group Says

Hamas has announced that Azzam al-Hayya, the son of the group’s chief negotiator Khalil al-Hayya, was killed following an Israeli airstrike in Gaza City, as fragile ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas continue under international mediation.

According to Hamas officials, the 32-year-old died from injuries sustained during a strike carried out Wednesday night in Gaza City. The attack reportedly killed another individual and wounded several others. Israel has not officially commented on whether Azzam al-Hayya was the intended target of the operation.

Khalil al-Hayya is regarded as one of Hamas’ most senior political figures and has played a leading role in indirect negotiations with Israel over the future of Gaza. The talks, mediated by the United States and regional actors, are aimed at preserving a ceasefire agreement reached after months of conflict.

Senior Hamas officials accused Israel of attempting to pressure negotiators through attacks targeting relatives of key leaders. Hamas official Taher al-Nono said such strikes would not force the group into concessions during ongoing discussions.

In comments aired by regional media before his son’s death was confirmed, Khalil al-Hayya reportedly said that if his son had been deliberately targeted, it would be considered “an honor” for the family and the Palestinian cause.

The latest incident comes as Israeli forces continue military operations across Gaza despite a US-brokered truce that halted large-scale fighting in late 2025. Key issues, including Hamas’ disarmament, humanitarian access and Israeli troop withdrawals from parts of Gaza, remain unresolved.

Health officials in Gaza say Israeli strikes have continued to cause civilian and militant casualties in different parts of the enclave, while humanitarian conditions remain severe for displaced residents living in overcrowded camps and damaged neighborhoods.