Jerusalem (TDI): Israel has claimed a significant breakthrough in its ongoing military operations, announcing that Yahya Sinwar, the leader of Hamas, was killed during an attack in the southern Gaza Strip.
The Israeli military confirmed Sinwar’s death on Thursday, stating that it occurred on Wednesday after Israeli forces “eliminated three fighters”.
Hamas, however, has yet to comment on the claim.
Sinwar, who was appointed head of Hamas’s political bureau in Gaza following the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh in August, has been a key figure in the organization for years.
Also Read: Israel Kills Hamas Leader Sinwar
His death, if confirmed, marks a pivotal moment in the intensifying conflict between Israel and Hamas.
Here’s how the world is reacting to the development:
Israel
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Sinwar’s death signifies Israel “settling its account” with the Hamas leader but emphasized that the “war is not yet ended”.
In a televised address, Netanyahu described Sinwar’s death as a “landmark” in weakening Hamas’s hold over Gaza, stating, “light is prevailing over darkness”.
Families of Israeli Captives
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, an Israeli advocacy group, welcomed the news, calling it a potential turning point in securing the release of Israeli captives, according to AlJazeera.
“We urge leveraging this major achievement to secure hostages’ return,” the forum said.
United States
U.S. President Joe Biden acknowledged Sinwar’s death as a moment of relief for Israel, calling it an opportunity to envision a Gaza without Hamas in power.
In a statement, Biden said, “Yahya Sinwar was an insurmountable obstacle… That obstacle no longer exists.”
He expressed hope for the return of captives and the possibility of ending the conflict.
Iran
Iran’s mission to the United Nations framed Sinwar’s death as a symbol of resistance against Israeli occupation.
In a post on social media platform X, the mission stated that Sinwar’s final moments would inspire future generations of Palestinians. “
Also Read: No US Role in Sinwar Killing: Pentagon
Resistance will endure, for the martyr remains alive and a source of inspiration,” the post read.
European Union
Josep Borrell, the EU’s foreign policy chief, remarked that Sinwar was “an obstacle to an urgently needed ceasefire and the unconditional release of all hostages”.
He reiterated the EU’s stance on ending violence in the region.
Germany
Germany’s Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock called on Hamas to immediately release hostages and cease its military actions.
France
French President Emmanuel Macron labelled Sinwar as the “main person responsible” for the attacks on October 7, urging Hamas to release all captives.
