What it’s about
Az al-Din Zaqout, a Hamas-affiliated individual known for his involvement in anti-Israel actions, was neutralized by the IDF in Gaza City. He gained notoriety for climbing an IDF outpost during the 2018 border riots and subsequently commemorated by Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar.
Why it matters
This incident highlights Israel’s ongoing commitment to protecting its borders and citizens from terror threats. Zaqout had since become a significant figure encouraging confrontations along the Gaza border and participating in night-time disturbances aimed at creating chaos along the Israeli border.
Details
Az al-Din Zaqout was targeted in an IDF airstrike in the Shati refugee camp. Known in Gaza as a symbol of resistance, Zaqout had climbed an Israeli sniper position during the 2018 “Great March of Return,” earning him accolades within Hamas ranks.
During this climb, he was photographed and nearly confronted by an IDF military jeep, forcing him to retreat under heavy fire. This event turned him into a potent propagandist tool, incentivizing youths to join violent marches and offering monetary compensations to those who were injured.
Zaqout received official recognition for his actions from Yahya Sinwar, leader of Hamas, with Islamic Jihad’s Deputy Secretary-General, Mohammed al-Hindi, in attendance. His activities later included participating in the “Night Confusion” unit, which orchestrated nighttime disturbances targeting both IDF personnel and Israeli border communities.
The broader context
The elimination of Zaqout reaffirms the IDF’s proactive stance in dealing with threats originating from Gaza. By dismantling operational capabilities and removing instigators like Zaqout, Israel demonstrates its resilience and determination to ensure national security against organized terrorist activities, including recent escalations witnessed before the October 7 attacks initiated by Hamas.
This story was first published on ynetnews.com.