Israel Targets Senior Hamas Official Mohammed Deif in Gaza Airstrike
In a significant escalation of the conflict, Israel launched an airstrike targeting Mohammed Deif, the top military official of Hamas, in southern Gaza. The strike, which took place in the Al-Mawasi area west of Khan Younis, resulted in the deaths of at least 71 Palestinians, according to local authorities. The Gaza Health Ministry reported that nearly 300 individuals were wounded in the attack, which struck a location designated by Israel as a safe zone for displaced Palestinians.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) stated that the airstrike was based on precise intelligence and aimed at Deif, who was reportedly with Khan Younis brigade chief Rafe Salama at the time. However, Hamas has denied these claims, labeling the attack as a 'horrible massacre' and asserting that no senior leaders were present. Videos from the scene show rescue teams and locals desperately trying to dig out people trapped under the rubble.
The Elusive Mohammed Deif: A Profile
Little is known about Mohammed Deif, whose real name is Mohammed Diab Ibrahim al-Masri. Born in the 1960s in the Khan Yunis refugee camp, Deif has been a key figure in Hamas' military operations for decades. He earned the nickname 'El Deif' (the Guest) due to his habit of moving from house to house to evade Israeli forces. Deif is notorious for orchestrating a series of suicide bombings in 1996 that killed 65 people in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, as well as other attacks aimed at derailing the peace process.
Deif's involvement in Hamas dates back to his early days with the Muslim Brotherhood and the Islamic cell at Gaza University. He later joined Hamas' military wing and has been a central figure in numerous attacks, including the kidnapping and murder of Israeli soldier Nachshon Waxman. Despite surviving multiple assassination attempts, which left him with severe injuries, Deif has continued to play a crucial role in Hamas' military strategy.
- The recent airstrike has intensified the already dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. Hospitals such as Kuwait and Nasser are overwhelmed with the influx of casualties, struggling to provide adequate care for the wounded and dead. The attack has drawn international condemnation, with many calling for an immediate ceasefire to prevent further loss of civilian lives.
- Mohammed Deif's elusive nature has made him a symbol of resistance for some and a figure of terror for others. His ability to evade capture and continue leading Hamas' military operations has only added to his mystique. Despite being severely injured in past assassination attempts, Deif remains a significant target for Israeli forces, underscoring the persistent and deep-rooted conflict between Israel and Hamas.
