Israeli forces in Gaza have killed Yahya Sinwar, the top leader of Hamas, a key figure in the attack on Israel last year that triggered the war. The military announced that Sinwar was encountered during a battle, leading to the discovery of his body in the rubble. He had been on Israel’s most wanted list since the start of the conflict, and his death deals a significant blow to the terrorist organization. Hamas has not yet confirmed his death.
After conducting DNA and other tests on a body found among three terrorists killed in operations in Gaza, the military confirmed Sinwar’s death. Foreign Minister Katz hailed the killing as a military and moral victory for the Israeli army, suggesting it could lead to the immediate release of hostages held by Hamas.
Sinwar played a crucial role in the attack on Israel in October 2023 and had been leading Hamas in the Gaza Strip for years, overseeing the growth of its military capabilities. Israeli security officials believe that Sinwar was killed in a battle, not as part of a planned airstrike.
Images circulating online depicted a man resembling Sinwar with a severe head wound, dressed in military attire, partially buried in the rubble of a destroyed building. The Israeli security official confirmed that the photos were taken at the scene. Additionally, it was revealed that Sinwar had been imprisoned by Israel from the late 1980s until 2011 and had received treatment for brain cancer during his captivity.
President Joe Biden has been briefed on the investigation into Sinwar’s death, with U.S. officials maintaining close contact with their Israeli counterparts. Sinwar took over as Hamas’s leader following the assassination of his predecessor, Ismail Haniyeh, in Tehran. Israel has also claimed to have killed the head of Hamas’ military wing, Mohammed Deif, although Hamas denies this.
While the report of Sinwar’s death emerges, Israel continues its air and ground assault in the Jabaliya refugee camp in northern Gaza. A recent strike on a school housing displaced Palestinians resulted in the deaths of at least 28 individuals, including women and children. The Israeli military defended the attack, stating it targeted a command center operated by Hamas and Islamic Jihad within the school.
Israel’s offensive in Gaza has caused significant casualties, with over 42,000 Palestinians killed, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. The conflict has led to the destruction of numerous neighborhoods, displacing a large portion of the population. The ongoing humanitarian crisis has raised concerns, prompting international aid efforts.
Despite the challenges faced by civilians in Gaza, Israel has maintained its military operations in the region, targeting militant strongholds in densely populated areas like Jabaliya. The conflict between Israel and Hamas has resulted in a devastating toll on both sides, with efforts to reach a lasting peace remaining elusive.
