Hamas vows defiance after Israel kills spokesman in Gaza strike

Hamas has confirmed the killing of its spokesman Abdul Latif al-Qanou in an Israeli air strike on northern Gaza, vowing the attack will only strengthen its resistance.

The Islamic Resistance Movement declared in a statement:

"We mourn the movement's spokesman, the martyred mujahid brother, Dr Abdul Latif Rajab al-Qanou. The occupation's targeting of the movement's leaders and spokespeople will not break our will, but will only increase our determination to continue on the path of liberation."

Al-Qanou died when an Israeli missile struck his tent in Jabalia refugee camp at dawn on Thursday - the latest high-profile Hamas figure eliminated in what appears to be Israel's targeted assassination campaign.

The killing comes as:

• Israeli forces push deeper into northern Gaza
• Hamas maintains stiff resistance despite heavy losses
• Civilian casualties continue mounting