The Israeli government is now vowing to focus on assassinating Hamas leaders – regardless of which country they are in.
– The struggle is worldwide, says defense minister Yoav Gallant.
The Lillehammer assassination in 1973 shocked the entire Nordic region and attracted worldwide attention. Israel had secretly sent Mossad agents to assassinate a Palestinian militant allegedly hiding in the small ski resort. But they misidentified the victim – and instead shot and killed Moroccan waiter Ahmed Bouchiki as he walked with his pregnant wife.
At least nine Israeli agents managed to get out of the country – but six members of the hit squad were arrested, and it was later revealed that the Mossad had several secret “bases” across Europe that were used in its assassination campaigns. Israel has still not officially apologized or taken responsibility for Bouchiki’s assassination.
Half a century later, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly announced that the Mossad will actively seek to assassinate terrorist-listed Hamas leaders – wherever they are, according to Israeli media.
“Destined to die”
Meanwhile, defense minister Yoav Gallant declared that all Hamas leaders are “living on borrowed time”.
– From gunman in the field to those who are enjoying luxury jets while their emissaries are acting against women and children, they are destined to die, he promises.
According to the Wall Street Journal, the Mossad will now focus on assassinating senior Hamas officials in other countries, including Turkey and Qatar, and is drawing up plans to carry out the assassinations.
In recent decades, Sweden has received a large number of Palestinian migrants, many of whom remain politically active in various pro-Palestinian organizations and networks. However, it is unclear whether Sweden is at risk of being targeted by Israeli hit squads.
