The Iranian Mission to the U.N. has reacted to the death of Yahya Sinwar, a key commander of Hamas, with a bold statement declaring that “the spirit of resistance will be strengthened,” as posted on their X account. Sinwar was implicated in orchestrating the heinous Oct. 7 attack in Israel.
On Thursday, the Israeli military reported that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) had engaged Hamas fighters in Rafah, Gaza. An IDF tank was subsequently ordered to strike the targeted building after the exchange of gunfire. Drone footage later confirmed Sinwar’s identity as he was found injured but alive, before he threw an object at the drone moments before being killed.
Adel Hana/AP
The Iranian Mission emphasized that Muslims would view Sinwar as a martyr, fighting openly rather than from hiding, stating, “the spirit of resistance will be strengthened.” Meanwhile, Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, celebrated Sinwar’s killing as a significant victory, describing it as “a settling of scores” in the wake of the devastating attacks that resulted in the death of approximately 1,200 Israelis.
The Israeli government views this development as a pivotal moment in their efforts to dismantle Hamas, urging the group to surrender and to release close to 100 hostages still held in Gaza. Netanyahu asserted that “Hamas will no longer rule Gaza,” declaring the beginning of a new chapter.
Ariel Schalit/AP
U.S. officials are hoping for a ceasefire following Sinwar’s death, with President Joe Biden indicating that this could pave the way for political discussions that benefit both Israelis and Palestinians. He plans to coordinate with Netanyahu regarding the potential release of hostages and an end to ongoing hostilities.
Since the tragic events of October 7, Israel has launched extensive military operations in Gaza, leading to reported casualties of about 42,000, as stated by the territory’s Health Ministry. Additionally, Israel has conducted ground operations in Lebanon, resulting in around 2,400 deaths and displacing over one million people, according to the Red Cross.
Israeli Forces Neutralize Two Militants Near Jordan
On another front, the IDF reported the killing of two militants who allegedly crossed from Jordan into Israel. The IDF stated that forces engaged with the militants after they opened fire during their approach.
This article includes reporting from The Associated Press