IDF kills two PIJ terrorists, one of whom commanded Inbar Hayman's abduction at Nova festival

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) killed two Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) terrorists in targeted operations in the Gaza Strip, according to military statements released on July 20, 2026. One of the militants, Taher Ahmad Salem Abd al-Wahed, was identified as the commander responsible for the abduction of Inbar Hayman, a 27-year-old former IDF soldier, during the infiltration of the Nova music festival on October 7, 2023. Hayman’s body was recovered and returned to her family in December 2023, more than two years after her death. Abd al-Wahed was eliminated in a strike conducted by the Shin Bet, Israel’s internal security agency, on Friday. His role in the abduction of Hayman was confirmed by the IDF, which detailed how he coordinated the operation following the initial infiltration by armed attackers. The second militant, Salah Subhi Salah Qatrawi, was killed in an operation targeting his plans to attack IDF personnel near the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) aid distribution centers. Both strikes were part of ongoing efforts to neutralize threats posed by PIJ operatives operating within the territory. Inbar Hayman had previously served as a commander in the IDF’s mixed-gender Caracal Battalion, a detail revealed by the military after her body was released. Her identity as a former soldier became widely recognized following the release of her remains, which were handed over to her family in December 2023. At the time, Hayman was the sole remaining female hostage held by Hamas, having been separated from the majority of other women who were freed during the November 2023 prisoner exchange. During the Nova festival, Hayman had participated as a “helper,” assisting dancers who were experiencing health issues. She was among the victims of the October 7, 2023, attacks, which saw numerous civilians and soldiers taken hostage. Her body remained in Gaza for over two years before being repatriated. The release of her remains sparked widespread emotional responses, particularly among her family and supporters. Her nickname, "Pink," derived from her graffiti art, became a symbol of hope and resistance. The slogan "Free Pink" emerged as a rallying cry for her release following the initial wave of kidnappings. Her family expressed deep emotion upon receiving her body, describing their feelings as a mix of joy and sorrow. They emphasized that Hayman deserved proper recognition and honor, stating that she would have encouraged them to continue advocating for the 19 other hostages still missing. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum disseminated the family’s message, highlighting Hayman’s service to the country. They praised her dedication to the IDF and invited the public to participate in commemorating her life. The family’s statement underscored the significance of her sacrifice and the ongoing struggle for the return of all captives. The IDF continues its operations in the Gaza Strip, focusing on dismantling networks associated with groups such as PIJ. These actions reflect broader efforts to address security threats and bring closure to cases involving missing individuals. As the situation evolves, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of citizens and resolving outstanding humanitarian concerns.