Hamas has issued a defiant statement asserting that the assassination of its leader, Yahya Sinwar, will only serve to strengthen the terror group, and it will not lead to the release of the remaining Israeli hostages.
Senior Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya confirmed Sinwar’s death in a video statement, vowing that it would enhance the group’s resolve against “the occupiers,” according to a translation by the ‘Times of Israel’.
In his remarks, al-Hayya dismissed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s demands for the release of the 101 hostages still held by Hamas, stating that they would only be freed under the condition of a full cease-fire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
Netanyahu had previously confirmed Sinwar’s death, labelling him the mastermind behind the October 7, 2023, incursion that resulted in the random slaughter of around 1,200 people.
Netanyahu addressed the people of Gaza, stating, “This war can end tomorrow. It can end if Hamas lays down its arms and returns our hostages.”
He emphasized his commitment to ensuring the return of all hostages, stating, “We will continue with full force until all your loved ones — our loved ones — are returned home. That is our supreme obligation. That is my supreme obligation.”
The Prime Minister also warned that anyone in Gaza holding hostages would be allowed to live if they surrendered their weapons and released the captives. The families of the hostages have urged Israel and its allies to “seize this opportunity” to ensure the safety of their loved ones.
White House spokesperson John Kirby remarked that Sinwar’s death was a significant barrier to previous cease-fire and hostage negotiations. He suggested that this development could serve as an “inflection point” for more productive talks, although he clarified that such discussions are not currently taking place.
