The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and Shin Bet confirmed that they eliminated Hamas militant Basel Haymoni in a precision strike in Gaza last week. Haymoni, originally from Hebron, was directly responsible for orchestrating the August 31, 2004 Beersheba bus bombings, twin suicide attacks that killed 16 Israeli civilians and injured over 100.

Following the attacks, Haymoni was apprehended in a joint operation by the IDF and Shin Bet in October 2004, subsequently imprisoned, and later released in 2011 under the Gilad Shalit prisoner exchange agreement. After his release and deportation to Gaza, Israeli security sources report that Haymoni returned to recruiting attackers and directing terror operations, including activities during the recent conflict in the region.

The operation underscores Israel’s commitment to responding to violations of ceasefire agreements and to neutralizing individuals who continue to threaten civilian lives. Israeli authorities described Haymoni as a veteran terrorist who, even after serving time, resumed planning and directing attacks against Israeli targets.

This action demonstrates the ongoing collaboration between the IDF and Shin Bet in counterterrorism efforts, combining intelligence, operational precision, and historical knowledge to prevent future attacks and maintain national security.