The Head of the Supreme Judicial Council of Hamas, 57-year-old Osama al-Muzaini was killed alongside his two sons, 27-year-old Hammam Osama al-Muzaini and 23-year-old Muhammad Osama al-Muzaini in a declared Israeli airstrike during the evening on 16 October 2023.  

Al-Muzaini, the former Minister of Education and a lecturer at the Islamic University of Gaza, was described by multiple sources as the “head of the Hamas Shura Council” - Hamas’ highest political organ. Through sources referred to Al-Muzaini as a “mujahid,” these references are likely due to his political role, not due to active militancy. Indeed, Hamas-affiliated social media accounts publicised Al-Muzaini’s death, but consistently referred to him as a political leader, and did not suggest that he had taken up a combatant role. As Airwars defines a combatant as one who has actively taken up arms, Airwars has categorised Al-Muzaini as a civilian. Should further information be found to the contrary, this assessment will be updated. 

Al-Muzaini’s son, Hammam, was remembered fondly by friends, with ‘Atiya.ahmad.37’ asking for “a thousand mercy [sic] and light,” to be granted to his “dear” friend. He shared a photograph of Hammam, clad in a black jacket, as well as one where he is dressed in formal wear. Two photographs, showing Hammam as a young boy, were also published online. 

All names have been matched with the Palestinian Ministry of Health (MoH) lists, which include national ID numbers. Airwars is matching individuals to the first list where their name appeared. In regard to this incident, names are matched to the first 'Palestinian Ministry of Health List of Fatalities in Gaza' list.

The IDF declared the strike on Telegram, stating that “The IDF and ISA killed Osama Mazini, the head of the Shura Council of Hamas terroist [sic] organization in the Gaza Strip. Mazini was responsible for Hamas prisoners and directed terrorist activities against Israel.” @sentdefender reminded readers that Al-Muzaini had “reportedly” been the “Primary Hamas Negotiator for the 2011 Prisoner Swap which resulted in the Release of IDF Sergeant First Class Gilad Shalit who was in Hamas Captivity for over 5 Years” which would align with judicial duties.