Hamas’s leader in Gaza, Yahya Sinwar, has reportedly gone missing, prompting Israeli authorities to investigate the possibility of his death. Several Hebrew media outlets reported on Sunday that Israeli intelligence is considering the likelihood that Sinwar may have been killed during recent military strikes in Gaza, though no concrete evidence has been found to confirm this claim.
Sinwar has been out of communication for an extended period, leading to increased speculation regarding his fate. According to reports from Israel’s public broadcaster Kan, along with Haaretz, Maariv, and Walla, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and military intelligence are examining the circumstances surrounding Sinwar’s absence. Notably, the Shin Bet agency believes he may still be alive, casting doubt on the reports of his potential death.
Sources cited by The Times of Israel indicate that Sinwar has a history of disappearing for periods, only to reappear later with messages concerning ceasefire negotiations or other pressing matters. Security officials have cautioned that any claims regarding Sinwar’s demise are purely speculative and lack a solid foundation.
Reports suggest that Israel has targeted tunnels in regions where Sinwar is suspected to be hiding. However, no definitive evidence has emerged to support claims that he has been harmed or killed. The Israeli military’s response to inquiries has been concise: “We have no information confirming or refuting the matter.”
Since the October 7 attack on southern Israel, which is believed to have been orchestrated by Sinwar, Israel has focused on eliminating key Hamas figures, including Muhammad Deif, the military wing chief, and Rafa’a Salameh, chief of the Khan Younis Brigade. Other high-ranking Hamas officials, such as Ismail Haniyeh and Saleh al-Arouri, have also been targeted in drone strikes earlier this year.
As the situation unfolds, reports have highlighted the covert communication methods that Sinwar allegedly employs from his hideouts, involving intermediaries and handwritten notes. The search for Sinwar continues, as he remains a high-value target for Israeli forces.
Sources By Agencies
