The United States and Germany stated that the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar could help create momentum to end the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip.
In a joint statement on Friday, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken described Sinwar as a “brutal murderer and terrorist” committed to destroying Israel and its people. They noted that he was a key architect of the October 7, 2023, terror attacks, which resulted in thousands of deaths and widespread suffering in the region.
“Sinwar stood in the way of a ceasefire in Gaza,” they emphasized. They expressed hope that his death could facilitate an end to the conflict, adding that all hostages must be released.
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Furthermore, the leaders highlighted the urgent need for increased humanitarian aid for civilians in Gaza. “Humanitarian aid must be surged to those in need. Germany and the United States, along with our partners, will spare no effort in this endeavor,” they stated.
Israel confirmed Sinwar’s elimination on Thursday evening. He was identified as the main figure behind the October 7 attacks, which claimed the lives of Israelis and resulted in over hostages being taken.
Lt. Col. Herzi Halevi, Chief of Staff of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), announced that Sinwar was targeted after a year-long pursuit. He stated, “Our forces have eliminated Yahya Sinwar, the leader of the Hamas terror organization and the mastermind of the massacre and kidnappings.”
Sinwar had succeeded Ismail Haniyeh as head of Hamas’ political bureau following Haniyeh’s death in Tehran earlier this year.
Israel has launched extensive military operations against Hamas in retaliation for the October 7 attacks. The war against Gaza has killed nearly 42,500 civilians in Gaza, Health authority reported.