JERUSALEM (VINnews) — Israeli forces on Friday eliminated three terrorists in the Jenin area, including Qais Bitawi, a senior Hamas operative in the former Jenin terrorist network, the Israel Defense Forces and Israel Security Agency said in a joint statement.
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The Israel Air Force struck a vehicle in the Jenin area during a joint IDF-ISA operation based on precise ISA intelligence, the statement said. Two additional accomplices were killed in the strike, and weapons were found in the vehicle.
Bitawi was a Hamas operative in the Jenin terrorist network that was dismantled during Operation Iron Wall, according to the announcement. He was involved in advancing significant terrorist activity, including directing, funding and executing attacks against Israeli civilians and security forces. He also maintained ties with Hamas in the Gaza Strip and with Hamas operatives abroad.
Bitawi was a family member of Noor Bitawi, the commander of the Jenin terrorist network who was eliminated by Israeli security forces in May 2025.
“The security forces will continue to operate to thwart terrorism and maintain security in the Judea and Samaria area,” the statement said.
Targeted intelligence and decisive action keep people safe. This is not about politics; it is about protecting lives. When threats are clear and present, a nation must defend its citizens. The mission is always to thwart terrorism and maintain security.