In a significant turn of events Khalil Al-Hayya Hamas deputy chief in Gaza and lead negotiator‚ confirmed on friday that Yahya Sinwar the groups top leader was killed during combat. Sinwar‚ who was 62 years old was the mastermind behind Hamas devastating cross-border attacks on Israel last year
The death of Sinwar comes after a series of assassinations targeting Hamas leadership and commanders: its a major setback for the Islamist organization‚ which has been under constant air assault since its raid on Israel roughly a year ago. That attack resulted in the death of 1200 people (based on Israeli counts) and the abduction of about 250 individuals to Gaza creating a hostage situation for Benjamin Netanyahuʼs far-right government
Sinwar who spent half his adult life in Israeli jails‚ was known for his uncompromising stance against Israel and his harsh treatment of Palestinians suspected of collaboration. He was elected to lead Hamas in Gaza around seven years ago and recently on 08/06/24 he was named the groups paramount leader succeeding Ismail Haniyeh who was killed in Tehran about two and a half months ago
Born in a refugee camp in Khan Younis a city in southern Gaza‚ Sinwar had managed to evade Israeli attempts on his life since the start of the conflict. His elimination marks a significant milestone in Israels declared mission to dismantle Hamas - a goal theyve pursued through relentless airstrikes on Gaza since the October attack
The loss of Sinwar widely regarded as the architect of last years assault (the most devastating event for Israel in decades) leaves Hamas without its most influential leader. This development is likely to have far-reaching implications for the ongoing conflict and future negotiations