Hamas military leader Mohammed Sinwar officially killed during Khan Yunis strike
In addition to Sinwar, the air strikes killed the commanders of the Rafah Brigade in Hamas and the South Khan Yunis brigade.
The IDF confirmed on Saturday that Hamas military chief Mohammed Sinwar was killed in Khan Yunis on May 13.
The operation was conducted in conjunction with Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) with the goal of advanced HAMAS numbers operating in underground command and control centers.
The IDF said the air strikes were conducted using extensive intelligence measures designed to avoid civilian harm. The target command center is located below the European hospital in Khan Yunis, but the hospital's surgery was not disturbed.
In addition to Sinwar, the air strikes killed Mohammad Shabaneh, commander of the Hamas Dynasty Brigade, and Mahdi Quara, commander of Hamas South Khan Yunis Battalion. Both figures were involved in the October 7 attack and the execution of operations against Israeli forces.
Sinwar is a key figure in Hamas' military leadership and plays a central role in planning the October 7 attack. He previously served as commander and head of operations headquarters for the Khan Yunis Brigade and was involved in the 2006 plan to abduct Gilad Shalit.
Mohammad Shabaneh, former commander of the Hamas Rafa Brigade. (Photo source: Canva, IDF spokesperson's unit)
The IDF said the operation was led by Southern Command and the Israeli Air Force and was guided by real-time decision-making by Lieutenant Chief of Staff, supported by intelligence from the IDF and ISA. Eyal Zamir.
Sinwar was appointed as Hamas military force after Mohammed Deif and his brother Yahya Sinwar were eliminated. His appointment marks the emergence of him as a key decision maker in Hamas’ strategic plan and reconstruction efforts.
Israeli Katz threatens to remain Hamas leadership
Defense Minister Israel Katz responded to the confirmation, saying: “It is now official: Chief murderer Mohammed Sinwar was eliminated along with Rafa brigade commander Mohammed Shabaneh, while criminals who were with them were sent to European hospitals in Gaza. They have been sent to his brother at the Gate of Hell.
Congratulations to IDF and ISA for their perfect execution.
Israel's long arms will contact all the responsible persons of the October 7 murder and atrocities, whether they are close or far away until they are completely wiped out. ”
He concluded: “Ezz al-Din al-Hadad and Khalil al-Hayya in Gaza are abroad, as well as all their criminal partners, you are the next step.”
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Wednesday that Sinwar was killed but security agencies have not confirmed his remarks.
