The leader of Hamas’ military wing is said to be among the victims of an airstrike that killed at least 71 people and wounded hundreds, according to the Hamas-run health authority in Gaza, Israeli media reported on Saturday.
According to the Haaretz newspaper, sources within the military believe that Mohammed Deif, head of the al-Qassam Brigades, was killed in the attack, which Hamas says took place on the al-Mawasi humanitarian zone in central Gaza.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said the strike targeted Deif, along with Hamas military leader in the central town of Khan Younis, Rafa Salama. They have not yet confirmed whether the pair, considered “masterminds of the October 7 massacre,” were killed.
According to the IDF, the attack “was carried out in a fenced area controlled by Hamas where, according to information from the IDF, only Hamas terrorists and no civilians were present.”
“It was a precise attack. It is estimated that most of the victims were also terrorists who were with Deif and Salama,” it added.
The IDF said the target area was an open area surrounded by trees, several buildings and barracks, with no tents nearby. According to Palestinian reports, the strike hit tents housing displaced people.
None of the reports could be independently verified.
