The Israeli military has claimed to have killed Hamas military chief, Mohammed Deif, in a recent airstrike, despite denials from Hamas.

The Israeli military spokesperson stated that Deif was killed in an airstrike on July 13th, 2023, targeting a refugee camp in the al-Mawasi area west of Khan Yunis. The spokesperson claimed that Deif was responsible for numerous attacks against Israel and played a key role in strengthening Hamas' military capabilities.

"Deif has been working closely with [Hamas leader in Gaza] Yahya Sinwar, and during the war, he managed Hamas' operations in the Gaza Strip, issuing instructions and orders to Hamas military leaders," the spokesperson added.

As of 9:45 AM (GMT), Hamas has not commented on the Israeli claims, but previously denied the targeting of its leaders in the al-Mawasi area, calling it "false Israeli claims to cover up the horrific massacre."

The airstrike on July 13th killed 90 Palestinians and injured 300 others, including dozens of children and women, according to preliminary figures from the Gaza Health Ministry.

The Israeli announcement of Deif's death follows a joint announcement by Hamas and Iran on Wednesday that Israeli forces had assassinated Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in a strike on his residence in Tehran. The alleged assassination occurred after Haniyeh attended the inauguration ceremony of Iran's new president, Masoud Pezeshkian.

While Israel has remained silent on the alleged assassination of Haniyeh, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hinted at Tel Aviv's responsibility.

Since October 7th, 2023, Israel has been waging a devastating war on Gaza with unwavering US support, resulting in over 130,000 Palestinian casualties, including children and women, and over 10,000 missing persons. The conflict has also caused widespread destruction and famine, leading to the deaths of dozens of children.

Despite two UN Security Council resolutions calling for an immediate ceasefire and orders from the International Court of Justice to take measures to prevent acts of genocide and improve the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza, Tel Aviv continues its offensive.