Izzat Al-Risheq, a member of Hamas's Political Bureau, commented on the “Israeli” claims regarding the assassination of Mohammed Deif, the overall commander of Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas.

"Confirming or denying the death of any Qassam leaders is a matter for the Qassam Brigades' leadership and the movement's leadership," Rashq said in a statement on his Telegram channel on Thursday.

He added, "Unless either of them announces it, no news published in the media or by any other parties can be confirmed."

Earlier on Thursday, the Israeli Occupation claimed responsibility for the assassination of Deif.

The “Israeli” military and Shin Bet said in a joint statement, "We received reliable intelligence indicating the assassination of Mohammed Deif in an attack on Khan Younis three weeks ago."

The statement added, "Air force aircraft targeted a compound where Deif and Rafat Salama were present, based on precise intelligence from the army and Shin Bet."