Israel launched an airstrike on the European Hospital in Khan Younis, southern Gaza, on Tuesday evening, aiming to eliminate Mohammed Sinwar, a senior Hamas figure and the brother of the group’s former leader, Yahya Sinwar. The strike resulted in the deaths of six Palestinians and injured at least 40 more, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated the strike targeted a Hamas command center beneath the hospital, although they did not confirm Sinwar’s status. The scene was described as catastrophic, with medical personnel scrambling to relocate patients.
Israeli Strike and Rocket Fire Heighten Tensions Amid Critical Gaza Peace Talks
Hamas denied Israel’s claim regarding Sinwar, asserting that only their official channels could confirm leadership casualties. The strike was followed by rocket fire from Gaza—the first in a month—claimed by Palestinian Islamic Jihad. Israel intercepted two of the rockets and issued evacuation orders for northern Gaza in response. Tensions spiked as this aggressive military action coincided with sensitive hostage negotiations and a recent goodwill gesture by Hamas, which released an Israeli-American hostage to the U.S.
The timing of the Israeli operation raises questions about its impact on potential diplomatic progress. As talks are set to begin in Qatar involving U.S. officials, including envoy Steve Witkoff, Israel’s attempt to kill Mohammed Sinwar—believed to be a key decision-maker—could undermine efforts to reach a negotiated settlement.
Former U.S. Ambassador Dan Shapiro noted that Sinwar’s death might be essential for advancing toward a Gaza without Hamas control and achieving a broader ceasefire and hostage release.
Mohammed Sinwar Emerges as Hamas Leader After Yahya’s Death in Rafah Clash
Mohammed Sinwar, seen as equally hardline but more militarily adept than his brother Yahya, previously commanded the Khan Younis Brigade. He is believed to have played a central role in orchestrating the October 7 attack on Israel. Since the war began, he has remained hidden, with occasional sightings in IDF-released footage. Israel has tracked his movements over time, previously identifying his office in western Khan Younis and targeting him based on intelligence about his underground activities.
While Yahya Sinwar had long been Israel’s primary target, his confirmed death shifted attention to his brother, Mohammed. Yahya, once sentenced to life in prison and later freed in a hostage exchange, rose to lead Hamas but was ultimately killed in a firefight in Rafah. Following his death, Mohammed took on the role of de facto leader.
If his death is confirmed, it would represent the elimination of Hamas’ top leadership and could significantly influence the direction of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. However, official confirmation of his death may not come for several weeks or even months.