IDF Confirms Hamas Leader Yahya Sinwar Killed in Rafah Firefight

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced Thursday night that Yahya Sinwar, Hamas’s terror chief and the architect behind the deadly October 7 invasion of southern Israel, was killed during a firefight in Rafah on Wednesday. The confrontation resulted in the deaths of Sinwar and two other militants.

According to the IDF and the Shin Bet security agency, Sinwar was not specifically targeted during the operation. His body was discovered on Thursday morning when IDF troops revisited the scene of the firefight. His identity was confirmed through DNA testing, with a part of his finger being removed for expedited analysis, as the area was heavily booby-trapped. Sinwar’s body was later transported to Israel.

A joint statement from the IDF and Shin Bet revealed that ongoing military activities had gradually restricted Sinwar’s movements, leading to his death. The 162nd Division and Gaza Division had been operating in areas believed to be harboring senior Hamas officials, with the final blow delivered by forces from the 828th Bislamach Brigade.

Hamas sources suggested their leader had been killed, corroborating Israeli reports. The firefight unfolded when IDF troops fired on a group of combatants inside a Gaza building on Wednesday. DNA analysis later confirmed Sinwar’s identity.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly offered Hamas a deal:

The immediate release of all hostages held by the group in exchange for a ceasefire and the laying down of arms. “We are ready to stop the fighting, to bring the hostages home, if Hamas agrees to this offer,” Netanyahu stated.

US President Joe Biden congratulated Netanyahu:

During a call aboard Air Force One, commending the IDF’s successful mission. Both leaders discussed the opportunity for a possible hostage deal and pledged to work together in this regard.

In a recording broadcast by Israeli media, an IDF soldier involved in the mission described the moments leading to Sinwar’s death. After a missile strike hit the building Sinwar was hiding in, a drone confirmed his presence. Sinwar, whose face was covered, attempted to disable the drone before troops fired additional rounds that killed him.

At the scene, IDF forces discovered cash, ID cards, and other items, including a roll of Mentos candy.

Earlier:

Israel Speculates Yahya Sinwar’s Death in Gaza, No Official Confirmation Yet

For Life Updates – Times of Israel