Israel Air Force battle helicopters attacked the home of leading Hamas figure Mahmoud Zahar in Gaza this morning. The building was totally destroyed, at least two people were killed, including Zahar's oldest son and his bodyguard, and Zahar himself was injured. He may be released from the hospital in time to take part in the mourning for his family members. Zahar's apparent hopes that his eldest son would continue in his footsteps have now been shattered.
The attack occurred in the Sabra neighborhood, a Hamas stronghold in which Sheikh Ahmed Yassin lives.
Zahar is outspokenly against the existence of the State of Israel. On May 22 of this year, he told BBC's Tim Sebastian, "I'm telling you frankly, the attitude of Islam is not to accept a foreign state in this area." Sebastian asked, "So until Israel ceases to exist, you won't lay down your arms. Is that right?" Zahar replied, "First of all, we are a part of the independent Islamist-- this is the attitude of thousands and millions of people."
The attack occurred in the Sabra neighborhood, a Hamas stronghold in which Sheikh Ahmed Yassin lives.
Zahar is outspokenly against the existence of the State of Israel. On May 22 of this year, he told BBC's Tim Sebastian, "I'm telling you frankly, the attitude of Islam is not to accept a foreign state in this area." Sebastian asked, "So until Israel ceases to exist, you won't lay down your arms. Is that right?" Zahar replied, "First of all, we are a part of the independent Islamist-- this is the attitude of thousands and millions of people."