Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Yahya Sinwar, a senior Hamas leader, had been killed, but emphasized that Israel’s operations in Gaza were far from over. In a recorded video statement, Netanyahu reiterated Israel’s commitment to securing the release of hostages held by Hamas.
“Today we have settled the score. Today, evil has been dealt a blow, but our task is not complete,” Netanyahu said. “To the dear families of the hostages, I say: this is a pivotal moment in our fight. We will continue with full force until all your loved ones, our loved ones, are home.”
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant also released a video message in Hebrew, translated as follows: “Yahya Sinwar was eliminated, ending his life while on the run. His elimination is a clear message to the families of the fallen and abducted: we are doing everything and will continue to do so. Residents of Gaza, the end of the man who brought disaster upon you has arrived. Release the captives and surrender.”
Sinwar’s death follows a history of attempted strikes on senior Hamas figures. Khaled Meshaal, a former Hamas leader, narrowly survived an Israeli assassination attempt in 1997 after agents poisoned him in Jordan, prompting an international crisis and a demand from King Hussein of Jordan for the antidote.
In recent months, Israel has conducted operations targeting top Hamas figures, including Marwan Issa, a key figure in Hamas’ military wing. Known as the “shadow man,” Issa was part of a three-man military council responsible for strategic decisions. Mohammad Sinwar, brother of Yahya and another high-ranking Hamas commander, has also been a key target in Israeli operations, reportedly surviving several assassination attempts.
Khalil al-Hayya, another senior Hamas leader and Sinwar’s deputy, had been involved in indirect ceasefire negotiations with Israel. Recent reports indicate that al-Hayya was in the same residence as Ismail Haniyeh, Hamas’ political leader, during an airstrike in Tehran, though he was unharmed.
As tensions remain high, Israel has pledged to continue its military actions in Gaza, seeking the release of hostages and targeting key figures within Hamas’ leadership structure.
