Israeli Airstrike in Gaza Kills 90, Including Salameh; Fate of Deif Uncertain

Jul 14, 2024, 02:10 PM

An Israeli airstrike on July 13 targeted senior Hamas military figures in Gaza, resulting in significant casualties. The attack, which took place in the al-Mawasi humanitarian zone in Khan Younis, killed at least 90 Palestinians, including women and children, and injured around 300 others. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) aimed to eliminate Hamas' military chief Mohammed Deif and his deputy, Rafa’a Salameh. While the IDF confirmed the death of Salameh, there remains uncertainty regarding Deif's fate. Hamas officials claim Deif survived the strike, and ceasefire talks continue despite the attack. The strike has been described as one of the deadliest in Gaza in recent weeks, with hospitals overwhelmed by the number of injured. Gaza's health ministry reported that 71 people were killed in a separate strike, which Hamas described as a 'massacre.' Additionally, rescue teams attempting to help victims were also targeted, resulting in casualties among the rescuers.