Hamas sources have indicated that new evidence points to the assassination of Mohammed Deif, the leader of Hamas’ military wing, the Qassam Brigades. Israel had previously claimed responsibility for Deif’s death, though Hamas initially denied it.
Speaking to Asharq Al-Awsat, sources close to Deif confirmed that contact with him was lost following an Israeli attack on July 13, 2024, which targeted both Deif and Rafah Salameh, a Qassam commander in Khan Younis, southern Gaza.
The sources said a partial body believed to be Deif's was found at the strike site days after the attack, though severe damage made identification difficult. Samples were taken from the body, and it was later buried in Khan Younis.
Tests on these samples reportedly confirmed the remains likely belonged to Deif, but disfigurement left some doubt among his family and associates.
However, after prolonged silence and a complete communication cutoff, Qassam leaders are now convinced Deif was killed.
The delay in confirming Deif’s death, the sources explained, was due to security challenges and limited communication options. Known for his secrecy, Deif was often called "the man of the shadows," which complicated efforts to verify his fate.
Sources say two people, including a “courier” who carried messages between Qassam Brigades leaders, were questioned on suspicion of helping Israel locate Deif and Salameh.
The courier, a Rafah resident, reportedly worked with another messenger from Khan Younis who knew Salameh’s locations and regularly delivered messages to him.
Details on the investigation or whether these individuals were linked to the assassination have not been disclosed.
The July 13 attack, which involved a series of intense airstrikes, killed nearly 90 Palestinians in Khan Younis.
Hours after the strikes, sources confirmed the death of Salameh, the Khan Younis brigade commander, who was buried by relatives and Qassam members. Reports suggested Israel used 2,000-pound bombs in the operation.
Hamas has repeatedly denied Deif’s death, insisting he is alive and still commands the Qassam Brigades. However, Israel has consistently maintained he was killed, with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant officially announcing his death on Aug. 1.
