The IDF statement accused al-Sharif of posing as a journalist, and being “responsible for advancing rocket attacks against Israeli civilians and IDF troops”
It said it had previously “disclosed intelligence” confirming his military affiliation, which included “lists of terrorist training courses”.
“Prior to the strike, steps were taken to mitigate harm to civilians, including the use of precise munition, aerial surveillance, and additional intelligence,” the statement added.
Last month, the Al Jazeera Media Network – along with the United Nations, external and the Committee to Protect Journalists, external (CPJ) – issued separate statements calling for the protection of al-Sharif.
The broadcaster denounced “relentless efforts” by the IDF for an “ongoing campaign of incitement targeting Al Jazeera’s correspondents and journalists in the Gaza Strip”.
“The Network considers this incitement a dangerous attempt to justify the targeting of its journalists in the field,” it added.
According to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), 186 journalists have been confirmed killed since the start of Israel’s military offensive in Gaza in October 2023.
Additional reporting by Shayan Sardarizadeh, BBC Verify