Netanyahu announces death knell for Hamas leader al-Sinwar in the Gaza Strip

Netanyahu announces death knell for Hamas leader al-Sinwar in the Gaza Strip

On May 28, 2025, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced in the Israeli parliament that Mohammed al-Sinwar, the head of Hamas in the Gaza Strip, had been killed. The news comes amid an escalating military offensive Israel is waging against Hamas to finally destroy the group and free hostages. The plot is described as a “dramatic turn toward a complete defeat of Hamas,” while Netanyahu addressed Israel’s control over food distribution in the Gaza Strip. Critics, including the United Nations, warn of the potential consequences of this control, which could potentially lead to the displacement of Palestinians.

At the beginning of May 2025, Mohammed al-Sinwar was the target of an attack on a hospital in the Gaza Strip. Netanyahu had already indicated before the official confirmation that it was likely that al-Sinwar was dead. His older brother, Yahya al-Sinwar, who was killed in October 2023, was largely linked to Hamas' devastating attack on Israel in which more than 1,000 Israelis were killed or kidnapped. This attack is considered to be the trigger for the ongoing conflict.

Illustrating the casualties and humanitarian crisis

According to Palestinian figures, Israeli attacks have killed over 53,000 people since the conflict began and more than two million Palestinians have been displaced from their homes. The humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip is increasingly critical. In recent days, local media reported riots during the distribution of aid, which left several people dead.

The ceasefire that existed in the past has been ended by the Israeli military and the offensive against Hamas in the region has regained intensity. In recent months, conflicts between Israel and militant groups, including Hezbollah, have further inflamed the situation.

Regional developments and international reactions

The situation in the Middle East is characterized by ongoing conflicts that have repercussions beyond borders. An example of this is Israel's attacks on Hezbollah targets in Lebanon that occurred on October 31, 2024, where Israel struck approximately 150 targets and the Lebanese Ministry of Health reported over two dozen deaths. In this context, the US government is calling for a ceasefire, especially in the run-up to the US presidential elections, to prevent further escalations.

The international community is monitoring developments with concern as the humanitarian situation in both Gaza and Lebanon continues to deteriorate. The UN reported insufficient humanitarian assistance, with only a limited number of trucks entering the Gaza Strip to alleviate the plight of Palestinians.