The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have confirmed the identification of the body of Mohammed Sinwar, the military chief of Hamas in Gaza, found in an underground tunnel under the European Hospital in Khan Younis. The IDF stated that DNA tests confirmed the identity of Sinwar, who was killed during an airstrike on May 13, which Hamas claimed resulted in the deaths of 28 individuals.
Sinwar’s remains were discovered alongside those of Mohammad Sabaneh, the commander of Hamas's Rafah Brigade, prompting the IDF to investigate additional items and intelligence found in the tunnel. IDF spokesperson Brig Gen Effie Defrin stated that this incident exemplifies Hamas's "cynical use" of civilians and infrastructure, alleging that hospitals function as hiding places rather than safe havens for medical care.
These allegations have sparked significant international scrutiny over Israeli military tactics, with organizations like the United Nations warning against the use of hospitals for military purposes. The growing number of fatalities among civilians, now reported as over 54,880 in Gaza since October 7, underscores the mounting humanitarian crisis.
The latest findings come amidst ongoing military operations aimed at dismantling Hamas following a deadly attack that killed approximately 1,200 individuals and led to 251 hostages being taken. As the situation escalates, the IDF is set on continuing its operations to eliminate Hamas and recover hostages, of which 54 remain unaccounted for.
Mohammed Sinwar has been with Hamas since its inception in the late 1980s and had a significant role in the planning of the recent attacks. His brother, Yahya Sinwar, who was also closely tied to Hamas's military operations, was killed in October 2023 by Israeli forces. The conflict remains incredibly complex, with significant implications for the regional security landscape and the ongoing humanitarian conditions in Gaza.
