The IDF and the Shin Bet announced that they eliminated Basam Hashem al-Fatah Himouni in a joint operation last week, removing a longtime Hamas operative who had been involved in attacks against Israel for more than 20 years.

Himouni, a native of Chevron, was considered a key player in Hamas’ terror infrastructure and maintained an active role in directing operations targeting Israel over the course of two decades.

He was responsible for dispatching the suicide bombers who carried out the coordinated double bombing of two buses in Be’er Sheva in August 2004. That attack claimed the lives of 16 people and wounded roughly 100 others. Israeli security forces apprehended him soon afterward, in October 2004, and he was subsequently sentenced to life imprisonment.

In 2011, as part of the “Shalit Deal,” Himouni was freed from prison and expelled to Gaza. After his release, he resumed involvement in terrorist activity, enlisting operatives and overseeing attacks.

Security officials said that amid the ongoing war, Himouni played a role in manufacturing and deploying explosive devices intended to target IDF troops operating in Gaza.

“His elimination represents an important and meaningful closure,” a joint statement read. “The IDF and Shin Bet will continue to operate against any terrorist who attempts to advance and execute terror plans against IDF forces and the State of Israel’s citizens.”

{Matzav.com}