Israel Announces Assassination of Hamas Leader Mohammad al-Sanwar in Gaza
By Kardo Roj
DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Wednesday the assassination of Mohammad al-Sanwar, a senior Hamas commander in Gaza, by the Israeli military.
Israeli media reported that al-Sanwar was targeted in an airstrike on May 13 in Khan Yunis, southern Gaza. The Israeli army stated that the strike hit Hamas militants at an underground command and control center located beneath the European Hospital in Khan Yunis.
Mohammad al-Sanwar is the younger brother of Yahya al-Sanwar, whom Israel accuses of orchestrating the October 7, 2023, attacks that triggered the recent escalation in Gaza.
Speaking before the Israeli Knesset, Netanyahu said, “Over 600 days, we have effectively changed the face of the Middle East, removing terrorists from our land. We entered Gaza with force and eliminated tens of thousands of terrorists, including Mohammad al-Sanwar.”
The strike forms part of Israel’s ongoing military campaign against Hamas, which has maintained control over Gaza since 2007. The conflict continues to significantly impact civilian populations in Gaza, with repeated cycles of violence affecting regional stability.
The announcement marks a continuation of Israel’s targeted operations aimed at degrading Hamas’ leadership and operational capabilities, emphasizing the central role of military force in the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The recent developments highlight the persistent volatility in Gaza and the wider region, with repercussions for security and humanitarian conditions.
No independent confirmation regarding the details of the strike or casualties has been available. International organizations continue to call for restraint and the protection of civilians amid hostilities.