Israel’s military has confirmed the death of Hamas’s military chief, Mohammed Deif, in an air strike in the Gaza Strip on July 13. The strike targeted a compound in the Khan Younis area, and while Hamas has yet to confirm Deif’s death, Israel asserts it was a significant blow to the group.
Role in October 7 Attacks
Deif was allegedly one of the key figures behind the planning of the October 7 attacks in southern Israel, which resulted in 1,200 deaths and 251 hostages taken. Israel’s Defence Minister, Yoav Gallant, hailed Deif’s death as a “significant milestone” in dismantling Hamas, emphasizing that the group’s terrorists would either surrender or be eliminated.
Profile of Mohammed Deif
Appointed head of the Izzedine al-Qassam Brigades in 2002, Deif was long one of Israel’s most wanted men, surviving seven assassination attempts. Known for his role in various deadly operations against Israel, Deif helped engineer tunnels for Hamas fighters to enter Israel. His death follows multiple Israeli efforts to eliminate him, including a failed attempt in 2014 that killed his wife and infant son.
Escalation in Regional Tensions
The confirmation of Deif’s death comes amid heightened tensions between Israel and its adversaries. Recently, Israel targeted and killed Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut and Hamas political leader Ismael Haniyeh in Tehran. These events have stoked fears of a broader regional conflict, with Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warning of severe repercussions for attacks on Israeli civilians.