In a significant escalation of the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) announced Thursday evening that Hamas Chief Yahya Sinwar, the leader behind the October 7, 2023, attacks, was killed in Rafah by Israeli forces. This development comes as the war between Israel and Gaza intensifies, with tensions spreading to other parts of the region.
In response to Sinwar’s killing, Hezbollah, a militant group backed by Iran, declared that it is moving towards "a new and escalating phase" of confrontation with Israel. Iran echoed this sentiment, stating that the "spirit of resistance will be strengthened." While Hamas has not yet officially commented on Sinwar’s death, sources within the group, cited by the Associated Press, suggest that the indications point to his death at the hands of Israeli troops.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, speaking after the IDF's announcement, stated that the war could come to an immediate halt if Hamas returns hostages and ceases its armed actions. Netanyahu also highlighted the diminishing influence of Iran in the region, noting the recent elimination of key figures in Hezbollah. US President Joe Biden praised the killing of Sinwar, likening it to the elimination of Osama Bin Laden in 2011, and described it as a crucial moment for Israel.
The conflict shows no signs of abating. After Sinwar's death, the IDF confirmed that 15 rockets were launched from Lebanon into northern Israel, with some intercepted by Israeli defense systems. Evacuation warnings have been issued in parts of eastern and southern Lebanon, and Israeli forces have also intercepted an unmanned aircraft near the country’s coast. As the region braces for further escalation, the conflict appears to be entering a more dangerous phase, with both sides preparing for potential intensification.