Hamas Chief Yahya Sinwar Killed in Israeli Operation, Once Called Death 'Greatest Gift'

Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, killed in an Israeli operation, once called death by Israeli forces the "greatest gift." He led Hamas' security efforts and orchestrated the October 2023 attack on Israel. His death fuels tensions in the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Yahya Sinwar, the Hamas chief who played a pivotal role in the Palestinian group's leadership, was killed in a recent Israeli military operation in Gaza. His death comes nearly a year after orchestrating the deadly October 7, 2023, attack on Israel that reignited the ongoing conflict.

In a resurfaced video from 2021, Sinwar spoke about the possibility of being assassinated by Israeli forces, calling it the "greatest gift" they could give him. He expressed his desire to die a martyr, stating that he would prefer being killed by military forces rather than succumbing to natural causes.

Born in a refugee camp in Gaza, Sinwar was a key figure in Hamas’ security wing, rising to prominence after taking over leadership following Ismail Haniyeh's death. Known for his hardline stance, Sinwar led the group's efforts in attacking Israel and defending Gaza, ultimately becoming one of the most wanted men by Israeli forces.

Israeli Defense Forces released footage from a drone that reportedly captured Sinwar's final moments, showing an injured man, believed to be Sinwar, attempting to strike the drone in a defiant act. His death has sparked both praise and mourning in Gaza, where some view him as a martyr and symbol of resistance.

Also Read: Gunshot to the Head, Finger Severed: Autopsy Details on Hamas Leader Yahya Sinwar

The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has intensified since the October 2023 attack, with over 1,200 Israeli casualties and more than 42,000 Palestinians killed, largely civilians, in retaliatory strikes on Gaza.