Israel launched a massive airstrike Tuesday targeting Muhammad Sinwar, Hamas’s top military leader in Gaza, at an underground command center beneath the European Hospital in Khan Younis. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has not confirmed Sinwar’s death, but security sources say he may have been killed if he was inside the tunnel as intelligence suggested.
The strike caused major destruction near the hospital, with video showing smoke plumes, collapsed ground, and damage to nearby structures. The Hamas-run health ministry reported 16 deaths and over 70 injuries.
The IDF said it used precision weapons and surveillance to limit civilian casualties, accusing Hamas of using hospitals as cover for military operations. Hours after the strike, the IDF issued a “final warning” evacuation notice for northern Gaza’s Jabalia area.
Sinwar, the younger brother of slain Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, rose to power after the deaths of Hamas commanders Yahya and Muhammad Deif. He is seen as a hardliner and has obstructed negotiations for a ceasefire and the release of Israeli hostages. He has a long history with Hamas, including roles in the 2006 abduction of IDF soldier Gilad Shalit and leading the Khan Younis Brigade.
In a related operation, the IDF and Shin Bet confirmed the killing of Hamas operative Hassan Eslaiah, who participated in and documented the October 7 terror attacks on Israel. Eslaiah had worked as a freelance photographer, but Israeli officials said he was operating under the guise of journalism.
Tuesday’s airstrike is part of Israel’s ongoing campaign to eliminate Hamas’s leadership following the October 7 massacre that killed 1,200 people and led to the abduction of 251 others.
