Yahya Sinwar, the Hamas leader behind the October 7, 2023, assault that sparked the ongoing Gaza conflict, was killed by Israeli forces on Thursday, according to Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz. Sinwar’s death marks a significant milestone for Israel in the war that has now stretched into its second year.
“Mass murderer Yahya Sinwar, responsible for the atrocities of October 7, was killed today by IDF soldiers,” Katz stated. He hailed the killing as both a military and moral victory for Israel and a blow to Iran-backed radical Islamist forces.
The Israeli army conducted DNA tests to confirm Sinwar’s identity, but Hamas has yet to comment on his reported death. Sinwar had been hiding in Hamas’ vast network of tunnels under Gaza, which has been a focus of Israel’s military efforts.
While Israeli hostages’ families expressed hope for a ceasefire, Gaza residents anticipated continued fighting. Sinwar’s death, which occurred during an Israeli operation in Rafah, is expected to intensify the conflict but could also open doors to negotiations, especially regarding hostages.
Earlier, Israeli airstrikes in northern Gaza claimed 19 lives, including children, in a school housing displaced families, adding to the toll of over 42,000 Palestinian deaths during the
