The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced the elimination of a key terrorist leader responsible for the horrific murders of the Bibas family and the kidnapping of US citizens. Mohammed Hassan Mohammed Awad, a senior commander in the Palestinian Mujahideen terrorist organization, was directly implicated in the October 7, 2023, attack on the Nir Oz kibbutz and the subsequent abduction and brutal murder of Shiri Bibas and her two young sons, Ariel and Kfir. Awad’s involvement extended beyond the Bibas family tragedy; he was also responsible for the abductions of American citizens Judi Weinstein Haggai and Gad Haggai, as well as the capture of Thai hostages.
The IDF’s statement highlighted Awad’s active role in recruiting terrorists in Judea and Samaria and within Israel itself, emphasizing his pivotal role in planning and executing attacks against Israelis. The attack on Nir Oz, which resulted in the Bibas family’s capture, garnered global attention due to the harrowing images that emerged showing Shiri Bibas desperately clinging to her sons during their abduction. The family’s father, Yarden Bibas, was also captured by Hamas terrorists while attempting to defend his family; however, they were held separately.
Yarden Bibas was released in January 2025 after 15 months of captivity. The remains of his wife and children were returned in February, following a period of intense international pressure and negotiations. Forensic analysis conducted by Israeli authorities revealed that Shiri and her sons were murdered in cold blood, contradicting false claims spread by Hamas that their deaths were caused by an Israeli air strike.
The IDF has not released specific details regarding the operation that led to Awad’s death, only confirming that he was ‘struck and eliminated.’ This decisive action represents a significant blow to the terrorist organization and offers a measure of justice for the victims and their families. The ongoing investigation into the October 7, 2023, attacks continues, with efforts focused on bringing all those responsible to account and securing the release of remaining hostages.
