• Source:JND
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The Israeli military announced the death of Hamas military chief Mohammed Deif, the mastermind behind the October 7 attack across Gaza border. Deif, who had survived multiple assassination attempts, was one of Israel’s most wanted. The news of his death comes just a day after Hamas’ political chief Ismail Haniyeh was assassinated in Iran.  

"The IDF (Israel Defence Forces) announces that on July 13th, 2024, IDF fighter jets struck in the area of Khan Yunis, and following an intelligence assessment, it can be confirmed that Mohammed Deif was eliminated in the strike," the military said.

Hamas has not yet released any official statement regarding this incident. The Israeli military based its conclusion on intelligence but has not provided specific evidence. 

This claim follows weeks of speculation about Deif's status since an Israeli airstrike on July 13 targeted the elusive Hamas commander in southern Gaza. At that time, the Israeli military did not confirm his death, and Hamas has not yet responded.

“Following an intelligence assessment, it can be confirmed that Muhammad Deif was eliminated in the strike,” the Israeli military said in a statement.

Is Israel Inching Closer To Its Goals?

Earlier last year, when Israel declared war on Hamas, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel would not end its military campaign in the Gaza Strip until its objectives were met, dismissing any suggestions of a ceasefire as unrealistic.

“It will continue until Hamas is destroyed — until victory…until all the goals we set are met: destroying Hamas, releasing our hostages, and removing the threat from Gaza,” Netanyahu told the media. 

Hamas has suffered several critical setbacks with the assassination of Haniyeh and the killing of Deif and Saleh al-Arouri. 

Israel has conducted nearly ten months of military operations in Gaza, achieving tactical success by diminishing Hamas battalions and eliminating many of its members. The Israeli government estimates that approximately 14,000 Hamas members have been killed.

Following a tactical victory over Hamas in Gaza, Israel may now be approaching a strategic victory.