Monday, November 14 2005 16:19 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Nablus: Israeli troops killed a senior Hamas militant in an arrest raid early today (Nov 14, 2005), touching off Hamas threats of revenge.

The violence raised tensions as dignitaries from around the world gathered in Israel to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the assassination of Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin.

Troops arrived at the home of Amjad Hanawi, 34, the commander of Hamas' armed wing in the northern West Bank, early today, Palestinian witnesses and the Israeli military said.

The soldiers ordered everyone out of the house and out of several surrounding buildings, Palestinian witnesses said. The Israeli military said seven of Hanawi's assistants gave themselves up, but he came out firing, so troops returned fire.

Palestinian witnesses said Hanawi was shot as he tried to climb a fence to escape. Neighbors also said army dogs attacked several family members.

Hamas members drove through the streets of Nablus, announcing Hanawi's death over loudspeakers. A funeral was planned later today.

Hamas' military wing, Izzedine al Qassam, said in a statement that 'the painful retaliation of Al Qassam is coming.'

"We say to the Zionists that you are going to pay the price,'' the statement said.

"You will regret each drop of blood you shed,'' he said.