On July 13, the IDF found and eliminated Hamas’ military commander Mohammed Deif, who had been on Israel’s most-wanted terrorist list for decades. After several previous assassination attempts over the years, how did the IDF finally get their man?

Reports now indicate that a Hamas courier, running messages between top Hamas commanders (including Mohammed Deif and perhaps Yahya Sinwar) to terrorist brigades within Gaza played a key role.

Apparently, IDF undercover units infiltrated an area of Khan Younis disguised as aid workers, Muslim religious leaders, a vegetable seller and a beggar. Physical and verbal contact with displaced Gazans ensued and intelligence was collected. Gazans in Khan Younis, excited about the anticipated arrival of their military leaders, chirped and a courier tipped off the undercover agents of his whereabouts. Ultimately, two of the undercover agents, stationed near the building where Deif and his deputy, Rafa Salama, were to arrive, confirmed the anticipated arrival and signaled the operational command unit.

Within minutes, a full-scale operation, including missiles fired from Israeli fighter jets, was unleashed, destroying the building where the wanted terror masterminds were plotting their next moves against the IDF. (You can read a more detailed account here.)

22 But the Lord has been my stronghold,
And my God the rock of my refuge.
23 He has brought back their wickedness upon them
And will destroy them in their evil;
The Lord our God will destroy them.
~Psalm 94:21-23

Indeed, the wickedness of Hamas has been turned back upon them and the Lord God will destroy the wicked.

Continue to pray for Israel’s leaders, soldiers and civilians.