The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) released drone footage on Friday showing Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar shortly before his death in a firefight in Gaza’s Rafah on Wednesday. The video reveals a debris-strewn building where a man, believed to be Sinwar, sits on a dust-covered armchair with his face wrapped. He throws a stick at the drone but misses.
The IDF confirmed the deaths of Sinwar and two other “terrorists”. Sinwar assumed leadership of Hamas after Ismail Haniyeh was killed in July 2024. He allegedly orchestrated the attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, igniting the conflict in Gaza.
Israel, along with key allies the US and France, celebrated Sinwar’s death. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu released a video statement, saying, “Today we have settled the score. Today evil has been dealt a blow but our task has still not been completed.”
Yahya Sinwar went out fighting. Dressed in fatigues, his right arm severed, he flung a stick defiantly at the Israel drone filming him. He had submitted to his fate from the moment he unleashed the flood. This video practically ensures the tide will rise. pic.twitter.com/B6ttzPMHJT
— Max Blumenthal (@MaxBlumenthal) October 17, 2024
U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller described Sinwar as the “chief obstacle” to ending the war, expressing hope for progress in the peace process. French President Emmanuel Macron also expressed hope for the return of hostages with Sinwar’s death.
In contrast, Iran stated that Sinwar’s death would only fuel further resistance against Israel. Hezbollah announced they would “transition to a new and escalating phase in the confrontation with Israel” following Sinwar’s death.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Sky News details how Israel’s chance encounter with Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar led to his death in a gun battle, highlighting a mastermind behind the 7 October attacks.(read more)
- NDTV reports that Israel Defense Forces released drone footage of Hamas Chief Yahya Sinwar’s last moments, showing him throwing an object at the drone before his death in a Gaza operation.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Who was Yahya Sinwar?
Yahya Sinwar was the Hamas chief killed in a firefight in Gaza’s Rafah.
What did the IDF release regarding Sinwar?
The IDF released drone footage showing Yahya Sinwar shortly before his death.
How did Israel and its allies react to Sinwar’s death?
Israel, the US, and France celebrated Yahya Sinwar’s death.
What did Iran and Hezbollah say about Sinwar’s death?
Iran said his death would fuel further resistance; Hezbollah announced escalating confrontation with Israel.
What did Netanyahu say about Sinwar’s death?
Netanyahu said, ‘Today we have settled the score. Today evil has been dealt a blow.’
