What’s happening:
Deputy Hamas leader Saleh al-Arouri, a notable figure in the Palestinian terror group, has been killed in an alleged Israeli drone strike in the suburbs of Beirut.
Why it matters:
Arouri’s death is significant as he was seen as a central figure within Hamas, responsible for orchestrating attacks against Israel and playing a pivotal role in Hamas’s military operations, especially in the West Bank.
The backdrop:
This development occurs during a critical phase for Hamas, following a surprise attack by the group across the Israeli border on October 7 that led to a prolonged conflict in Gaza, resulting in significant casualties and hostages.
Profile of Saleh al-Arouri:
An influential member within the Hamas leadership both inside and outside Gaza, Arouri was instrumental in the group’s military strategies and was at the forefront of relations between Hamas and its allies, including Hezbollah and Iran. His advocacy for Palestinian armed resistance and his involvement in past prisoner negotiations have marked him as a key player in Hamas’s interactions with both allies and adversaries.
The big picture:
Arouri’s elimination may impact future negotiations over the recent Gaza war, the hostilities between Hamas and Israel, and the potential reconciliation among Palestinian factions. His role in strengthening ties with Hezbollah and Iran further underscores the potential geopolitical ramifications of his death on the region.
What they’re saying:
“Whoever did this did a surgical strike against the Hamas leadership,” stated Mark Regev, a senior adviser to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Israel maintains a policy of ambiguity regarding such operations, neither confirming nor denying its responsibility.
Between the lines:
Despite his involvement in terror activities, Arouri is known to have pursued reconciliation efforts among Palestinian factions and had established a rapport with Fatah. His death could influence the delicate balance and ongoing efforts for unity within Palestinian politics.
What’s next:
The aftermath of Arouri’s killing may see heightened tensions and possibly retaliatory actions from allied groups like Palestinian Islamic Jihad, which has already vowed revenge. The Israeli intelligence community and Netanyahu’s administration are likely to continue watching for shifts in Hamas’s strategy and leadership structure in response to the event.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.