Israeli Airstrike Kills Dozens in Gaza: Hamas Chief May Be Targeted An Israeli airstrike targeted a building in Gaza on Saturday, killing at least 71 Palestinians and injuring 289, according to the enclave’s health ministry. The attack reportedly aimed to eliminate Mohammed Deif, Hamas’ military chief. However, a security official stated that it is unclear whether Deif was killed. Israel Army Radio said he was hiding in an Israeli-designated humanitarian zone west of Khan Younis. Deif has been a key figure in Hamas and has survived seven past Israeli assassination attempts. He is believed to be one of the masterminds behind the Oct. 7 attack on Israel that sparked the current conflict in Gaza. Witnesses reported that the strike was a surprise as the area had been calm. Reuters footage showed ambulances rushing towards the area, and panic-stricken civilians fleeing with their belongings. A senior Hamas official called the Israeli allegations “nonsense” and claimed that all the victims were civilians. He accused Israel of escalating the conflict and expressed skepticism about reaching a ceasefire deal. The Israeli military said it was investigating reports of casualties, including members of the Civil Emergency Service. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant was holding consultations in light of the developments in Gaza. The airstrike has raised concerns about the ongoing fire talks in Doha and Cairo. It remains to be seen how it will affect the efforts to end the conflict.