The dramatic assassination of Mohammed Deif has once again raised questions about leadership within Hamas in Gaza. Middle Eastern researcher and analyst, Adi Cohen, addresses the hierarchy in the region, stating that Sinwar was never number one.
In an interview with 'Maariv,' Cohen attributes the top position within the organization to Mohammed Deif: "He is the number one person. Sinwar is not number one. Mohammed Deif is the head of the Al-Qassam Brigades. He is the ruler of Gaza."
However, Cohen is sceptical regarding whether Deif's assassination will weaken Hamas: "Over the past 30 years, we have seen that killing someone does not topple the organization. It deals them a blow, but it's not a game-changer for us."
Nevertheless, Cohen adds: "Hamas is almost broken; the assassination could impact and cause people to abandon this path. But to say that Hamas is collapsing - I don't accept that version."
Regarding the implications of Deif's assassination on Yahya Sinwar, Cohen said: "It's a blow to the leadership that remains alive. It undermines their morale significantly. If I were Sinwar, I would be thinking, how did they know where he was? Who provided the information? He will start suspecting everyone, leading to paranoia among his close associates. This is a blow for them. I can say that with certainty."