Muhammad Sinwar, Leader Of Palestinian Terror Outfit Hamas, Killed In Israeli Airstrike

An Israeli airstrike earlier this month in Gaza's Khan Younis killed top Hamas commander Muhammad Sinwar, along with Rafah Brigade leader Muhammad Shabana and Mahdi Quara, Israeli defence officials confirmed on Saturday (31 May) evening, as reported by The Times of Israel.

In a joint statement, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Israel Security Agency (Shin Bet) said the three senior operatives were "eliminated while operating in an underground command and control centre under the European Hospital in Khan Younis, deliberately endangering the civilian population in and around the hospital".

The strike came after intelligence reports confirmed the absence of hostages, previously believed to be kept close to Sinwar.

The IDF said it used extensive intelligence measures…"to enable a precise strike that would mitigate civilian harm to the greatest extent possible.”

Fighter jets reportedly dropped over 50 munitions in just 30 seconds.

According to Hamas-run authorities, the bombing killed 16 people and wounded over 70.

Muhammad Sinwar, brother of slain Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, was regarded as one of Israel’s most wanted men and had played key role in planning the 7 October 2023 massacre.

He assumed de facto leadership of Hamas in Gaza after Yahya’s death in October 2024.

Sinwar previously commanded the Palestinian terror outfit’s Khan Younis Brigade and its military operations division.

Following Sinwar’s death, command is believed to have passed to Izz al-Din Haddad, head of the Gaza City Brigade.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz declared, “Now it is official: The murderer Muhammad Sinwar has been eliminated... and he was sent to meet his brother at the gates of hell.”

Katz warned remaining Hamas leaders, including Khalil al-Hayya, that “you are next in line.”

This strike marks another significant blow to Hamas’s leadership, most of whom have been eliminated during the ongoing conflict.

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