Israel Kills Hamas Commander, Minister Seeks Annexation

On September 27, 2026, Israel's military announced it killed a Hamas commander in a new operation in Gaza. The commander, Sakr, was identified as the driver of the motorcycle used to abduct Noa Argamani during the October 7 attacks. Separately, far-right Israeli minister Smotrich renewed calls for war in the West Bank and the annexation of parts of Lebanon and Gaza. Israeli forces also imposed a West Bank-wide closure amid ongoing settler attacks, and Palestinian reports noted casualties from Israeli airstrikes in Gaza.