Home > Yahya Ayyash

He received a degree in electrical engineering from Beir Zeit University in 1988.

Ayyash became one of the chief bomb-makers for Hamas. In that capacity, he earned the nickname the Engineer ("Al-Muhandis" in Arabic). The bombings he orchestrated caused the deaths of more than 70 Israelis. These bombings began after the killing of approximately 50 Palestinians by Baruch Goldstein on February 25, 1994.

He was killed by the Israeli Shin Bet in 1996 following a massive manhunt. They were able to compromise one of Ayyash's fellow Hamas members, who gave him a cell phone full of explosives. When they confirmed Ayyash was using it, the Shin Bet detonated it, killing him instantly.

Aftermath

Israel did not confirm or deny its role in killing Ayyash. This led to wild rumors and speculations as to the extent of their involvement. Three days after the assassination, the head of the Shin Bet at the time, Carmi Gillion resigned his post. In retaliation HAMAS launched a series of suicide bombings. These attacks began on February 26, 1996, with dual early morning suicide bombings of an Israeli bus and troops on the roadside. Other revenge attacks included the suicide bombing of an Israeli bus on March 3March 3 is the 62nd day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (63rd in leap years). There are 303 days remaining. Events 1400-1899 1431 Eugenius IV becomes Pope. 1791 The United States Mint is created by the United States Congress. 1820 The United States, 1996, and the March 4March 4 is the 63rd day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (64th in leap years). There are 302 days remaining. Events Up to 1799 303 or 304 Martyrdom of saint Adrian of Nicomedia. 1152 Frederick I Barbarossa is elected King of the Germans. 1461 King Heth bombing of Dizengoff Center.