IDF claims Deif dead, Hamas leader denies, but no official statement from Hamas

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced the death of Mohammad Deif, the leader of Hamas’s military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, while Hamas official Izzat Al-Risk denied the claim.

In their statement, IDF confirmed, “On July 13, 2024, IDF aircraft struck the Khan Younis area, and after intelligence evaluation, it has been confirmed that Mohammed Deif was eliminated in the attack.”

Following this announcement, Hamas’ Telegram channel stated, “It is up to the Qassam Brigades and the leadership of the movement to confirm or deny the death of one of the Qassam leaders.”

Hamas did not provide any information regarding Deif’s status, whether he is deceased or alive.

Earlier in the war, Mahmud Zahhar was also reported dead, but this was not officially confirmed. After Hamas’ statements, social media users speculated that Deif might be dead, but Hamas would not confirm it.

While these speculations were circulating, Hamas leader al-Risk commented, “Mohammed Deif, the commander of the Qassam Brigades, was not killed. Our struggle against the occupying Israel continues on many fronts. The media is also part of this war, and the occupying army is manipulating through the media.”

Hamas sources speaking to Turkey Today stated, “Two weeks ago, Hamas denied the news of Mohammad Deif’s martyrdom. No official statement has been made regarding the current situation. It should be noted that Israel uses such news as a psychological warfare technique.”