Title: The main figures of Hamas in Israel’s sights: portrait of the leaders of the Palestinian Islamist movement
Introduction :
Since the recent attacks perpetrated by Hamas in Israel, the main figures of the Islamist movement are more than ever in the sights of the Hebrew State. From Mohammed Deif to Ismaël Haniyeh, via Saleh Al-Arouri, Hamas has a number of leaders who occupy key positions within the organization. In this article, we will profile these Hamas leaders, who embody Palestinian resistance to Israel.
1. Mohammed Deif: the supreme commander of the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades
Mohammed Deif is considered Israel’s number one enemy. In charge of Hamas’s military operations, he is suspected of being the mastermind of the October 7 attack. For more than 30 years, he has been the priority target of Israeli services. Known for his pseudonym “el-Deif”, he is a master of clandestinity and secrecy, escaping several assassination attempts. Mohammed Deif was instrumental in the arming and operations of the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades.
2. Ismaël Haniyeh: the political leader of Hamas
Ismaël Haniyeh is a major figure in Hamas. As the movement’s political leader since 2017, he is also a priority target of Israel. Coming from a refugee camp in Gaza, Haniyeh is an early Hamas activist. Former dean of the Islamic University of Gaza, he has been imprisoned by Israel on several occasions. Despite his voluntary exile in Turkey and Qatar, he continues to play a central role in Hamas politics, calling for reconciliation with Fatah.
3. Saleh Al-Arouri: Hamas number two
Saleh Al-Arouri, recently killed in a targeted strike in Beirut, was Hamas’ number two. He was considered one of the Islamist group’s most influential leaders. Al-Arouri was suspected of being involved in organizing terrorist attacks against Israel. His death represents a blow to Hamas, but only strengthens the movement’s determination to continue the fight against Israel.
Conclusion :
The main figures of Hamas are charismatic and determined leaders, who embody Palestinian resistance to Israel. From Mohammed Deif to Ismaël Haniyeh, via Saleh Al-Arouri, they play a central role in the politics and operations of the Islamist movement. By being constantly in Israel’s sights, they find themselves at the heart of a complex and long-standing conflict that continues to mark the region’s history.