Israeli Military Investigates Possible Death of Hamas Leader Yahya Sinwar
The Israeli military announced Thursday that it is investigating whether Yahya Sinwar, the top leader of Hamas in Gaza, was killed during a recent military operation. Authorities are conducting DNA tests on a body found in Gaza to determine if it is Sinwar, a key figure behind Hamas’ attacks on Israel. An Israeli security official, speaking anonymously, confirmed that the tests are ongoing, with no official confirmation of Sinwar’s death, leaving the situation in a state of suspense.
Three Militants Killed in Gaza Operations
The Israeli military stated that three militants were killed during operations in Gaza but did not specify their identities or the exact location. The military is “checking the possibility” that one of the deceased is Sinwar. There has been no immediate response from Hamas regarding these reports.
Sinwar has been a central figure in Hamas for years and played a significant role in orchestrating the October 7, 2023, attacks on Israel, which resulted in over 1,200 deaths. If confirmed, Sinwar’s death would be a significant blow to Hamas’ leadership, potentially altering the dynamics of the conflict. He became Hamas’ leader in Gaza after the assassination of his predecessor, Ismail Haniyeh, in an Israeli airstrike. Israel also claimed responsibility for a strike that allegedly killed Mohammed Deif, the head of Hamas’ military wing, though Hamas denies Deif’s death.
U.S. Briefed on Investigation
President Joe Biden has been briefed on the ongoing investigation, according to U.S. officials. The White House remains in close contact with Israeli authorities as the situation continues to develop.
Israeli Airstrikes Target Jabaliya Camp
The investigation into Sinwar’s possible death comes amid Israel’s intensified air and ground operations in Gaza. On Thursday, Israeli forces struck the Jabaliya refugee camp in northern Gaza, hitting a school sheltering displaced Palestinians. Gaza’s Health Ministry reported that 15 people, including five children, were killed, and dozens more were injured. The nearby Kamal Adwan Hospital struggled to handle the casualties.
Israeli authorities claimed the strike targeted a command center operated by Hamas and Islamic Jihad militants inside the school. However, the names of those involved have not been independently verified.
Heightened Tensions in Lebanon
Meanwhile, in Beirut, a building housing the offices of Al Jazeera and the Norwegian Embassy was evacuated after a bomb threat. The source of the threat remains unclear, though there have been several similar warnings in Lebanon, often linked to Israeli operations targeting Hezbollah.
Ongoing Gaza Conflict
Israel’s military campaign in Gaza began after the October 7 attacks, aiming to eliminate Hamas. Since the conflict started, over 42,000 Palestinians have been killed, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, which does not distinguish between civilians and combatants. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has worsened due to Israel’s blockade, limiting access to food and medical aid.
Northern Gaza, where Israel’s ground invasion first began, has suffered the heaviest destruction. Despite evacuation orders, an estimated 400,000 people remain in the area under dire conditions. Earlier this month, Israel allowed two shipments of aid into the north following pressure from the U.S. to address the humanitarian crisis.
Conclusion
As Israel continues its offensive in Gaza, the possible death of Yahya Sinwar could mark a significant turning point in the conflict, potentially weakening Hamas’ leadership. However, the situation remains fluid, with ongoing airstrikes, evacuations, and an escalating humanitarian crisis that shows no signs of easing.