Yahya Sinwar, the Hamas leader, was killed on October 16, 2024

Yahya Sinwar, the Hamas leader, was killed on October 16, 2024, during a shootout with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in the southern Gazan city of Rafah ¹. This incident was part of the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, which began with the October 7 Hamas-led attack on Israel. Sinwar was one of Israel's most wanted men following that attack.

The IDF's 828th Bislamach Brigade had been conducting a routine patrol when they encountered suspicious activity. After spotting three militants leaving a building, the soldiers engaged, unaware that Sinwar was among them. A firefight ensued, resulting in the death of three Hamas operatives, including Sinwar ¹.

Sinwar's body was later identified through dental records and DNA testing. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Sinwar's killing "settled the score," but emphasized that the war would continue until Israel's hostages were returned ¹.

*Reactions to Sinwar's Death*

- _Hamas Response_: Basem Naim, a Hamas official, said that Sinwar's elimination would make Hamas stronger and more popular ¹.
- _International Reaction_: U.S. President Joe Biden praised the operation, comparing Sinwar's death to the killing of Osama bin Laden and emphasizing the opportunity for a "day after" in Gaza without Hamas ¹.

*Background on Yahya Sinwar*

Sinwar had been designated a terrorist by the United States government since September 2015 ¹. He led Hamas in the Gaza Strip since February 2017, focusing on military strengthening and alliances with Iran and Hezbollah. Sinwar was committed to the destruction of Israel and was believed to be one of the main architects of the October 7 Hamas-led attack on Israel ¹.