NEW DELHI: In a significant development, Israel has claimed that it has killed Yahya Sinwar, the top leader of Hamas, during an operation in Gaza. Foreign Minister Israel Katz confirmed the news, describing Sinwar's death as a "military and moral achievement" for the Israeli army. Sinwar, who has been on Israel's most wanted list since the beginning of the Israel-Hamas war, was considered the mastermind behind the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel.

In recent weeks, Israeli forces have been operating in southern Gaza, based on intelligence that pointed to areas where senior Hamas officials were suspected of being. Katz stated that Sinwar's death could pave the way for the release of hostages and bring about a new reality in Gaza without Hamas and Iranian control.

The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) conducted operations in Gaza, during which three terrorists were eliminated, and one of them is believed to be Sinwar. However, there has been no immediate confirmation from Hamas regarding his death. The IDF is still verifying the identity of the terrorists killed in the operation. According to the IDF at the end of a year-long manhunt, following dozens of operations this year, the Israeli forces reduced Sinwar’s area of ​​activity and finally Israeli soldiers from the Southern Command killed Sinwar on Wednesday night.

A force of the 828th Brigade, which operated in southern Gaza, identified and eliminated three fighters. After identifying the body, it was possible to confirm that Sinwar was killed.

Sinwar, was a Palestinian politician who served as the de facto leader of Hamas and was the chairman of the Hamas Political Bureau in the Gaza Strip, succeeding Ismail Haniyeh until his assassination in July 2024, in both roles.

The killing of Sinwar is seen as a major blow to Hamas, which has been a significant adversary for Israel. The situation remains tense, and the international community is closely watching the developments. The absence of a response from Hamas adds to the uncertainty and complexity of the situation.