Yahya Sinwar Has Been Eliminated

Today, I’m sharing an operational update that marks a pivotal moment in Israel’s fight against terrorism.

The Israel Defense Forces have successfully eliminated Yahya Sinwar, the head of the Hamas terrorist organization and the mastermind behind the October 7th massacre, bringing an end to a year-long pursuit. Sinwar was responsible for the horrific violence that day, including the murder, rape, and abduction of innocent civilians, ranging from babies to the elderly. His brutal attack tore through communities, claiming the lives of 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages, 101 of whom remain in captivity today.

For the past year, Sinwar sought to evade justice, hiding behind civilians in Gaza as he continued to wage war against the State of Israel. From his strategic planning of Hamas' tunnels and rockets to the horrific invasion of October 7th, Sinwar’s leadership has been defined by cruelty and brutality. But yesterday, he was left with nowhere to hide.

In recent weeks, forces of the IDF and ISA, under the command of the Southern Command, have been operating in the southern Gaza Strip, following IDF and ISA intelligence indicating suspected locations of senior Hamas members. IDF soldiers of the 828th Brigade (Bislach) operating in the area identified and eliminated three terrorists. After completing the process of identification, it was confirmed that Yahya Sinwar had been eliminated, ending his reign of terror.

This achievement would not have been possible without the bravery and sacrifice of our soldiers and officers. Their dedication, even in the face of unimaginable risks, is a testament to their courage and resolve.

Hamas’ remaining leaders are living on borrowed time. The path forward is clear: they must surrender and release our hostages. Yesterday’s action has made Israel, Gaza, and the entire region safer, but the mission continues. Yahya Sinwar may be gone, but Hamas still holds 101 hostages in Gaza. Until each hostage is returned home and the residents of northern and southern Israel can live in safety and security, our work will persist.