In a defiant declaration amidst the escalating conflict in Gaza, Hamas has confirmed the death of its leader, Yahya Sinwar, and pledged to continue its fight against Israel. Khalil al-Hayya, Sinwar’s deputy, has asserted that the group will not compromise on their demands for a ceasefire, echoing the conditions set forth by the late leader.
Hayya, currently living in exile in Qatar, stated on Friday, “We are continuing Hamas’s path.” He emphasized that Hamas will emerge stronger than ever despite the loss of its leader, a claim many experts have contested, arguing that Sinwar’s death represents a significant blow to the militant group.
The conditions outlined by Sinwar for a ceasefire remain unwavering. They include a complete cessation of Israeli military operations in Gaza, the complete withdrawal of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) from the occupied coastal strip, and the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. Hayya has reiterated these demands, emphasizing that the release of hostages held by Hamas will not occur until “the aggression against our people in Gaza stops.”
The death of Sinwar has sparked reactions from world leaders. US President Joe Biden, while acknowledging the loss of life caused by Sinwar, described his death as a “moment of justice” and appealed to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to use this moment to seek a path towards peace. Similar sentiments were expressed by French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Netanyahu, however, has taken a different stance, emphasizing the weakening of Hamas due to Sinwar’s death, labeling it an “important landmark in the decline of the evil rule of Hamas.”
Despite facing mounting international pressure, Israel has continued its aggressive approach in the Gaza war, targeting the top brass of both Hamas and Lebanon’s Hezbollah. The future of the conflict remains uncertain, with both sides steadfast in their positions, leaving the path to peace shrouded in uncertainty.