July 13th 2024.
Reports have surfaced that Israel has launched a massive strike in the southern Gaza Strip, targeting the elusive military commander of Hamas. According to sources, at least 71 people lost their lives in this attack, confirmed by local health officials. The identity of the deceased is yet to be confirmed, but it has been revealed that the main targets were Mohammed Deif and Rafa Salama, both high-ranking members of Hamas.
Deif, who is believed to be the mastermind behind the October 7 attack that claimed the lives of 1200 people in southern Israel, has been on Israel's most-wanted list for a long time. He has reportedly survived multiple assassination attempts in the past, making him a significant threat to Israeli security. The potential death of Deif could have far-reaching consequences, including derailing cease-fire talks and being seen as a major victory for Israel in their ongoing nine-month campaign.
However, Hamas has denied these claims, calling them false and baseless. Jihad Taha, a spokesperson for the group, stated that this was not the first time Israel had made such allegations, and they were later proven to be untrue. He also added that this was a convenient way for Israel to justify their crimes and massacres against the Palestinian people.
The strike caused widespread devastation, with at least 289 people injured and many of them being taken to Nasser Hospital for treatment. Associated Press journalists at the hospital counted over 40 bodies, and witnesses described the chaotic scene of the attack. Charred tents, burnt-out cars, and scattered belongings were seen amidst the blackened earth as emergency workers and displaced Palestinians searched for survivors. Some even used carpets to transport the bodies of the deceased.
Eyewitnesses reported that the strike hit Muwasi, a designated safe zone in Gaza, where hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians had sought refuge. This area stretches from northern Rafah to Khan Younis and is mostly filled with makeshift tents, providing shelter for those fleeing the conflict.
An Israeli official revealed that the strike was carried out in a fenced area of Khan Younis, which was under the control of Hamas. However, no further details were given about the exact location. This attack comes at a critical time as the US, Egyptian, and Qatari mediators are working towards finding a solution to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. They are trying to bridge the gaps between the two sides and reach a three-phase cease-fire and hostage release plan for Gaza.
Mohammed Deif, who has been in hiding for more than two decades, is believed to be paralyzed after surviving multiple assassination attempts. He remains a mysterious figure, with only a 30-year-old ID photo released by Israel being the only known image of him. Even in Gaza, only a few people would be able to recognize him.
The proposed cease-fire plan, backed by the US, calls for a limited hostage release and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from populated areas in Gaza. This will be followed by negotiations between the two sides to reach a permanent cease-fire and complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. This plan was put in motion after Hamas launched their attack on October 7, where they killed 1200 people, mostly civilians, and abducted around 250.
Since then, Israel has launched several ground offensives and bombardments, resulting in the deaths of over 38,300 people and injuries to more than 88,000, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. The majority of these casualties are civilians, and over 80% of Gaza's population of 2.3 million have been displaced from their homes, living in overcrowded and unsanitary tent camps and facing severe hunger. The situation in Gaza remains dire, with no end to the conflict in sight.
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