Who was Mohammed Deif, the architect of Hamas Oct 7 attack?

The killing of Deif is a major blow to Hamas

In a major development in the ongoing Gaza conflict, Israeli forces have confirmed the death of Mohammed Deif, Hamas' military leader and a key architect of the October 7, 2023 assault on southern Israel.

Deif, 58, had eluded capture for decades, maintaining a shadowy presence within the militant group. His death, resulting from an Israeli airstrike on July 13 in Khan Yunis, marks a significant blow to Hamas. The Israeli military confirmed the strike's success, though Hamas has yet to comment on the announcement.

According to a Reuters report, Mohammed Deif, survived seven Israeli assassination attempts, the latest in 2021. Post-October 7, he directed military operations from Gaza's tunnels and backstreets with senior colleagues. Over 30 years, Deif advanced within Hamas, creating a tunnel network and enhancing bomb-making skills, making him Israel's most wanted due to his role in numerous suicide bombings. Despite losing an eye and suffering serious leg injuries from past attempts on his life, his resilience turned him into a folk hero among some Palestinians.

The Reuters report says that Deif, along with Yahya Sinwar and Marwan Issa, formed a council that orchestrated the October 7 attack, which resulted in 1,200 deaths and over 250 hostages. Following this, Netanyahu's government vowed to eliminate these leaders.

Deif's "Al-Aqsa Flood" raid, named during a broadcast as Hamas launched rockets, was retaliation for Israeli actions at Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa Mosque in May 2021. Triggered by footage of Israeli forces storming the mosque, the operation was planned as a response to perceived aggression, which had previously led to 11 days of fighting. Israel accused Palestinians of inciting violence, while Palestinians disputed this claim. The mosque's storming, a flashpoint for violence over sovereignty and religion, intensified the conflict.

Some other important information about Deif:

Limited Imagery: Mohammed Deif is known from only three images: one in his youth, another masked, and a shadowy image used in an October 7 recording.

Rare Public Appearance: Deif, who rarely spoke publicly, caused significant attention when Hamas announced he would address the public after the Oct 7 attack.

Significant Announcement: In his rare public message, Deif expressed Hamas's determination to confront Israeli actions and promised retribution in his pre-recorded address.

Hamas' Dual Perception: For Palestinians, Hamas leaders are seen as fighters for liberation, while Israel and Western states view them as terrorists.

Planning the Attack: Deif, alongside Yahya Sinwar, was instrumental in orchestrating the October 7 attack, with Deif being the chief architect.

Strategic Deception: Deif's plan involved misleading Israel into believing Hamas was focusing on economic development rather than preparing for conflict.

Hamas' Grievances: Deif's recorded message criticized Israel for its actions against Palestinians and called for ending these perceived injustices.

Casualties and Destruction: The conflict since October 7 has resulted in over 39,400 Palestinian deaths and extensive destruction in Gaza.

International Criminal Court (ICC): The ICC requested arrest warrants for Deif, Sinwar, and other figures from both Hamas and Israel, leading to disputes over the ICC’s approach.

Deif’s Early Life: Born Mohammad Masri in 1965 in the Khan Younis Refugee Camp, Deif became known as Mohammed Deif after joining Hamas during the first Intifada.

Education and Background: Deif studied science at the Islamic University in Gaza, where he was also involved in stage performances.

Arrest History: Deif was arrested by Israel in 1989 and spent approximately 16 months in detention.

Family Tragedy: His wife, 7-month-old son, and 3-year-old daughter were killed in an Israeli airstrike in 2014.

Hamas' Strategic Goals: Deif's involvement in the October 7 attack and ongoing conflict reflects Hamas’s broader strategy and goals.

Impact of Assassination: The killing of Deif in July 2024 represents a significant blow to Hamas, with potential ramifications for the ongoing conflict and negotiations.

(With Reuters Input)