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Israeli officials have confirmed that they targeted Hamas’ military leader in a massive airstrike on the southern Gaza Strip on Saturday, resulting in at least 71 deaths, according to local health authorities.

The Gaza Health Ministry reported at least 289 injuries in the strike, one of the deadliest in the ongoing conflict. Journalists from the Associated Press claimed that 40 bodies were taken to Nasser Hospital, where medical teams were working to treat many of those wounded.

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Hamas quickly denied claims that Mohammed Deif, a key figure in the October 7 attack on southern Israel, was among the casualties. Israeli officials stated that both Deif and another commander, Rafa Salama, were the intended targets and were hiding among civilians. According to survivors of the attack, it occurred in the “Muwasi safe zone,” where many displaced Palestinians had sought refuge. As of now, Deif’s exact fate is unclear.

More on Mohammed Deif:
Deif, considered the mastermind behind the October 7 attack that left approximately 1,200 Israelis dead, is second in command of Hamas. For Decades, Deif has long been at the top of Israel’s most-wanted list, surviving multiple assassination attempts in the past (which has left him paralyzed). Some have noted that his potential death could significantly impact ceasefire negotiations, potentially halting the progress of ongoing talks.

This development comes as international mediators from the US, Egypt, and Qatar continue efforts to reach a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. The last proposed agreement involved a three-phase plan. It would initially begin with a ceasefire, then lead to a limited hostage release and then finally end with the withdrawal of Israeli troops from populated areas.

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