Israel claims death of Hamas leader in Lebanon

The Israeli Air Force eliminated Hamas’ head of operations in Lebanon, Muhammed Shaheen, in a targeted airstrike Monday morning, according to the Israel Defense Forces. Shaheen was a knowledgeable leader who specifically helped mount rocket attacks on the Israeli homefront, according to the IAF statement.

Does this strike break the ceasefire? The negotiated ceasefire does allow Israel to act against immediate threats from Hamas. The IAF insisted that Shaheen had been involved in a foiled terror plot against Israel directed and financed by Iran, making the targeted airstrike permissible under the ceasefire.

Any updates on hostages? Hamas released three hostages over the weekend, as promised, in exchange for Israel’s release of nearly 370 Palestinian prisoners and detainees. Israeli leaders now expect to receive the bodies of four hostages on Thursday, according to reporting by The Jerusalem Post. Israel is expected to reciprocate by releasing all female Palestinian prisoners plus any detainees under the age of 19 who were arrested during and soon after the Oct. 7 attack. Israeli leaders will also begin to allow mobile homes to enter Gaza, The Post’s report added.

Dig deeper: Read Travis K. Kircher’s report for more details on the hostage exchange over the weekend.