Muhammad Deif: The Elusive Leader of Hamas

Muhammad Deif, the shadowy leader of Hamas’s military wing, is believed to be the mastermind behind the Oct. 7 assault on southern Israel that resulted in approximately 1,200 casualties and sparked the ongoing nine-month-long conflict in Gaza. Known for his ability to evade multiple Israeli assassination attempts, Mr. Deif has maintained a top spot on Israel’s most wanted list for many years.

An enigmatic figure, he is highly respected within certain Palestinian circles for his role in enhancing Hamas’s military capabilities. Despite being a prime target of one of the most formidable militaries in the Middle East, Mr. Deif has become a symbol of Hamas’s resilience, continually finding ways to survive and lead the group.

During the Oct. 7 offensive on Israeli towns and military sites, Mr. Deif delivered a recorded speech affirming the group’s operation as a message to the enemy that their unchecked aggression was over. “Righteous fighters, this is your day to bury this criminal enemy,” he declared in the broadcast on Hamas’s Al-Aqsa TV. Urging his followers to eliminate the enemy wherever they are found, Mr. Deif emphasized the need to cleanse the land and sacred places from oppression.

Supported by Iran, Hamas maintains a strong relationship with Mr. Deif. Despite his low public profile and scarce available images, the Israeli army released a photo in January claiming it was of Mr. Deif, showing him casually seated under a tree with a handful of cash.