Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu declared that the war is far from over despite the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar on Wednesday. Sinwar was killed in Rafah by Israeli forces. Netanyahu described this as the “beginning” of the end of the war but stressed that it will only conclude when the remaining 97 hostages, held by Hamas since October 7, 2023, are released.
In a video posted on X, Netanyahu addressed Gaza residents, stating, “This war can end tomorrow if Hamas lays down its arms and returns our hostages.” He further remarked, “Today, evil has suffered a heavy blow, but our mission is not yet complete.” Israeli military chief Herzi Halevi echoed this sentiment, asserting that the conflict will persist until all “terrorists” involved in the October 7 attack are captured.
Hamas has yet to confirm or comment on Sinwar’s death. However, the IDF released a video on Friday showing an injured Sinwar attempting to strike a drone just before his demise. Sinwar allegedly orchestrated the October 7 attack on Israel, which intensified the conflict between Israel and Gaza.
Yahya Sinwar is dead.
He was killed in Rafah by the brave soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces.
While this is not the end of the war in Gaza, it’s the beginning of the end. pic.twitter.com/C6wAaLH1YW
— Benjamin Netanyahu – בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) October 17, 2024
Sinwar’s death follows several Israeli offensives targeting senior Hamas and Hezbollah commanders, severely impacting these militant groups. Netanyahu listed other eliminated figures, saying, “Nasrallah, his deputy Mohsen, Haniyeh, Deif, and now Sinwar are gone. The reign of terror imposed by the Iranian regime on its people and those in Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen will also end.”
The US State Department viewed Sinwar’s death as a positive step for ceasefire negotiations, noting he had been a significant obstacle to mediation. US President Biden and French President Macron both called for the release of hostages and praised the elimination of the Hamas leader on social media.
What Other Media Are Saying
- SCMP: The killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar by Israel is seen as an opportunity for a ceasefire and hostage deal, with US leaders hailing it as a chance to end the Israel-Gaza war.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Is the war between Israel and Hamas over?
No, Netanyahu stated the war is far from over despite Sinwar’s death.
Who was Yahya Sinwar?
Yahya Sinwar was a Hamas leader killed by Israeli forces in Rafah.
What did Netanyahu say about the end of the war?
Netanyahu said the war will only end when all 97 hostages are released.
How did the US view Sinwar’s death?
The US State Department saw Sinwar’s death as positive for ceasefire negotiations.
Have Hamas confirmed Sinwar’s death?
No, Hamas has not confirmed or commented on Sinwar’s death.
