Success of Massive Strike Remains Unclear, Impact on Ceasefire Talk Uncertain, but Many in Israel Believe that Cracks in Hamas are Spreading and the Time for a Mass Surrender is Approaching

Israel’s attempt Saturday to eliminate Mohammed Deif, the elusive military commander of Hamas’ Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, has intensified the conflict in Gaza, raising questions about the future of ceasefire negotiations but perhaps bring a Hamas surrender closer. Deif, who has evaded multiple assassination attempts over the years, is considered one of the most wanted men by Israeli security forces due to his role in orchestrating numerous attacks against Israeli civilians and military targets. Hamas has denied his death but Israeli officials have expressed optimism.

The Target: Mohammed Deif

Deif, born Mohammed Diab Ibrahim al-Masri, is a figure shrouded in secrecy and legend. He has survived several targeted assassination attempts, leaving him with severe injuries. Known for his strategic mind and ruthlessness, Deif has been instrumental in shaping Hamas’ military tactics, including the development of its rocket arsenal and the construction of extensive tunnel networks used for smuggling and surprise attacks. He has been called the “architect of October 7.”

The Attempt

The latest Israeli operation, carried out by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the Shin Bet security agency, involved precise intelligence and advanced technology along with a massive display of explosive power which produced a billowing mushroom cloud. While details of the mission remain classified, sources indicate that the strike targeted a safe house where Deif was believed to be hiding. Despite the sophistication of the operation, Deif reportedly survived once again, though the extent of any injuries remains unknown. Hamas claimed that 90 were killed. It appears that most were military.

Ceasefire Negotiations in Jeopardy

The timing of the operation has complicated ongoing ceasefire talks brokered by Egypt, Qatar, and the United Nations. Prior to the assassination attempt, there were signs of progress towards a truce, with both sides reportedly considering terms that would ease the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and provide security assurances for Israel.

However, the attempt on Deif’s life has fueled anger and mistrust among Hamas leaders, who view it as a betrayal of the negotiation process. In a statement, Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh accused Israel of undermining peace efforts and vowed to continue resistance until Palestinian demands are met. “This attempt on Deif’s life is a clear message that Israel is not interested in peace,” Haniyeh declared.

Strategic Calculations

From Israel’s perspective, targeting Deif is part of a broader strategy to weaken Hamas’ military leadership and disrupt its operational capabilities. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the operation, stating that eliminating high-level threats like Deif is essential for national security. “Deif is a mastermind of terror,” Netanyahu asserted. “His removal would significantly impair Hamas’ ability to conduct large-scale attacks.” It remains to see if this cat is on his ninth life.