Uncertainty Surrounds Fate of Hamas Leader Mohammed Deif
The Gaza Strip has once again become the epicenter of intense conflict, with recent Israeli airstrikes targeting key Hamas figures. The Israeli military launched a massive attack in the southern part of Gaza, specifically aiming at Mohammed Deif, the elusive leader of Hamas' military wing, and Rafa Salama, the commander of the Khan Yunis Brigade. However, it remains unclear whether Deif was killed or injured in the strike. According to the Hamas-controlled health authority, at least 71 people were killed and 289 injured in the Al-Mawasi humanitarian zone, with many in critical condition.
Hamas has denied reports that its leaders were targeted or killed, with spokesperson Ali Barakeh stating that Mohammed Deif is 'fine and continues to command the resistance against the Israeli enemy.' The Israeli military, however, continues to investigate the outcome of the attack, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledging that there is still no absolute certainty regarding Deif's fate.
Ceasefire Negotiations and International Reactions
While the airstrikes have intensified, negotiations for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas have stalled. Talks mediated by Egypt, Qatar, and the USA have seen little progress, with new demands from Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu further complicating the situation. Netanyahu's recent condition that armed fighters from the south must not return to the north of Gaza has been met with reservations from negotiators, potentially derailing diplomatic efforts.
The ongoing conflict has drawn international condemnation, particularly after the bombing of the Al-Mawasi humanitarian zone. Arab countries, including Egypt, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia, have denounced the attacks, calling for an immediate ceasefire and protection for civilians. The United Nations has also called for the unconditional protection of civilians, emphasizing the need for all parties to adhere to international humanitarian law.
The conflict, which began after the October 7 attack by Hamas that killed 1,200 people in southern Israel, has resulted in over 38,300 Palestinian deaths and widespread destruction in Gaza. The humanitarian crisis continues to worsen, with more than 80% of Gaza's 2.3 million residents displaced and facing severe shortages of food and medical supplies.
- The Israeli military has reported finding weapons and a Hamas command center at the UNRWA headquarters in Gaza, further complicating the humanitarian situation. The headquarters had not been used by the UN relief agency in recent months, and the discovery of a Hamas tunnel network has raised concerns about the use of civilian areas for military purposes.
- Hamas has proposed the formation of an independent government for the Palestinian territories as part of the ceasefire negotiations. This proposal includes the administration of Gaza and the West Bank by a non-partisan government with national competence. However, the political and military wings of Hamas remain divided on the approach to ceasefire talks, with the military core having the final say.
- The conflict has also seen increased involvement from other regional actors. Hezbollah has claimed responsibility for a drone attack on northern Israel, and Turkey's President Erdogan has rejected NATO cooperation with Israel, citing the need for a comprehensive and sustainable peace in the Palestinian territories.
