In its latest series of attacks, Israel has targeted the supreme military commander of Hamas, Mohammed Deif. Despite signaling for peace talks, Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) on Saturday launched a series of attacks in the al-Muwasi humanitarian zone near Khan Yunis in southern Gaza. Deif, a key figure in Hamas’s military operations for years, was hit in a long-range attack that has led to speculation about his death.
Speaking on the same, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu said that he wasn’t certain if the Palestinian terrorist was killed. However, he asserted that the assassination attempt was beneficial for the Jewish nation. It is pertinent to note that Deif has had a history of surviving previous assassination attempts.
Deif, who is Hamas’s second-in-command, has been a primary target for Israel for many years, especially after the events of October 7. His potential death would mark the most significant loss for Hamas’s leadership since the war began. The IDF has already eliminated other high-ranking figures, including Deif’s deputy, Marwan Issa, and Saleh al-Arouri, the deputy of Hamas’s leader outside of Gaza, Ismail Haniyeh.
Alongside Deif, Rafa Salama, the commander of Hamas’s Khan Yunis Brigade and an intermediary for Gaza Hamas Chief Yahya Sinwar concerning hostages, is also believed to have been killed in the strike. Meanwhile, the assault has added to existing casualties in the war-torn Gaza Strip. As per the latest data by Al Jazeera, at least 90 people were killed in Saturday’s attack and 300 others were wounded.