An Israeli airstrike in Gaza likely killed a Hamas leader and planner of Oct.7 attack

The Israel Defense Forces struck a compound in the Gaza Strip that Israel says has been used for Hamas terrorist organization activities, likely killing the leading architect, Mohammed Deif, of the October 7 attack into Israel, which triggered the current war between Israel and Hamas.

The Gaza Health Ministry, which is controlled by Hamas, says that at least 71 people were killed and that at least 289 were injured in the attack that occurred in a fenced area of Khan Younis, a city in southern Gaza. 

Israeli officials confirmed that Deif and another Hamas commander, Rafa Salama, were the targets. The IDF said they were “still checking and verifying the result of the strike,” according to The Associated Press.

The strike occurred in an open area surrounded by trees, a few buildings, and sheds, according to The Jerusalem Post.

Israeli security officials estimate that there were many terrorists in the compound at the time of the strike, but that there were no Israeli hostages there. This operation makes clear the challenges of fighting a terrorist organization that locates near a civilian population.