In a significant escalation of the conflict in Gaza, Israeli forces targeted Hamas’ military chief, Mohammed Deif, in an airstrike on Saturday. The strike, which occurred in the Israeli-designated humanitarian zone of Al-Mawasi, west of Khan Younis, has resulted in at least 71 reported fatalities and 289 injuries, according to Gaza’s health ministry.
Mohammed Deif, a key figure within Hamas, was reportedly the target of the attack. Known for his role in orchestrating Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel, which sparked the current wave of hostilities, Deif has survived numerous assassination attempts by Israeli forces, including one as recent as 2021. He has long been at the top of Israel’s most-wanted list.
The airstrike comes amidst ongoing ceasefire negotiations in Doha and Cairo, raising questions about its potential impact on diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the violence. Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant has convened special consultations in response to the developments in Gaza, although the precise implications for ceasefire talks remain unclear.
In the aftermath of the strike, conflicting reports have emerged regarding casualties and the nature of the targets. While Gaza’s health ministry claims a high toll of civilian casualties, including members of the Civil Emergency Service, Israeli authorities are investigating these claims.
Reacting to the strike, a senior Hamas official dismissed Israeli allegations that Deif was present in the targeted area as “nonsense,” labeling the incident as a grave escalation in what he described as a “war of genocide.” He further criticized international silence on the matter, accusing Israel of undermining efforts to achieve a ceasefire.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos and devastation following the attack, with ambulances rushing to the scene amidst smoke and dust. Displaced civilians, including women and children, were seen fleeing in panic, some clutching belongings as they sought safety.
The strike has underscored the deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where infrastructure and essential services are already strained amid ongoing conflict. The international community faces renewed calls to intervene and facilitate a peaceful resolution to the escalating violence.
Sources By Agencies
