Hamas Operatives Launch RPG Attack on Israel Backed Militia During Food Distribution in Khan Younis

Hamas operatives attacked an Israel backed militia in Khan Younis during a food aid mission, killing one fighter and wounding two others with an RPG.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 20, 2026, 7:32 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from The Times of Israel

Armed Confrontation Disrupts Aid Efforts in Southern Gaza

Heavy gunfire and explosives erupted in Khan Younis on Monday as Hamas operatives targeted a localized militia supported by Israel. The incident took place in the center of the city, where armed men identified by Hamas affiliated media were filmed engaging in combat. According to Hussam al, Astal, the commander of the targeted militia, the attack was a calculated ambush that occurred just as his men were finalizing a humanitarian aid delivery to local residents.

Militia Commander Details Deadly RPG Ambush

Hussam al, Astal reported that approximately 20 of his fighters had spent three hours distributing food to civilians without any sign of Hamas presence. As the group prepared to depart the scene, Hamas operatives allegedly emerged from among the civilian crowds to open fire. The commander confirmed that the attackers launched a rocket propelled grenade at his men, resulting in the death of one militia fighter and inflicting light injuries on two others.

Tactical Restraint Amid Civilian Presence

Despite being armed at the time of the ambush, the militia fighters reportedly chose not to return fire. Al, Astal claimed that his unit prioritized the safety of the Gazan civilians remaining at the site, fearing that a full scale gun battle in the crowded central district would lead to high non combatant casualties. Following the fatal shooting and the RPG impact, the militia retreated from the area to de, escalate the immediate tactical situation.