Hamas has officially confirmed the death of its senior Gaza military commander Mohammed Sinwar, months after Israel claimed responsibility for his killing during an airstrike in May. The confirmation marks a significant development in the shifting leadership structure of the Palestinian group.
Confirmation of Mohammed Sinwar’s Death
The group released photographs of Sinwar alongside other senior figures, referring to them collectively as “martyrs.” However, Hamas did not disclose when or how Sinwar died, leaving uncertainty around the exact circumstances of his death.
Mohammed Sinwar was the younger brother of Yahya Sinwar, the former Hamas chief in Gaza. Yahya Sinwar played a central role in orchestrating the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, which triggered a new wave of conflict. He was later killed in combat a year after the attack.
Rise to Leadership After Brother’s Death
Following his brother’s death, Mohammed Sinwar was elevated to the highest military ranks within Hamas. His leadership focused on overseeing strategic operations in Gaza and coordinating with field commanders. Despite his rise, Sinwar was regarded as maintaining close ties with his brother’s inner circle and carried forward Yahya Sinwar’s militant vision.
New Leadership Shift
With the confirmation of his death, responsibility for Hamas’ military operations in Gaza now falls to his close ally, Izz Al Din Haddad. Haddad, who already supervises military operations in northern Gaza, is expected to expand his control over the entire enclave. This shift is likely to influence Hamas’ military strategy in the coming months as the group adapts to consecutive leadership losses.
Regional and Strategic Implications
The confirmed death of Mohammed Sinwar adds to the growing list of high-profile Hamas leaders killed since 2023. Analysts suggest that the removal of two prominent Sinwar brothers could weaken the organization’s internal cohesion. However, others argue that Hamas has historically demonstrated resilience by quickly redistributing leadership roles after similar losses.
The development also highlights the continued intensity of the conflict in Gaza, where targeted strikes and leadership eliminations have become central to Israel’s strategy. The confirmation of Sinwar’s death underscores the fragility of Hamas’ leadership structure as it faces both military pressure and internal challenges.
While Mohammed Sinwar’s death marks a symbolic and operational setback for Hamas, the group remains positioned to continue its resistance operations under new leadership. Whether the transition consolidates power under Haddad or sparks internal divisions will shape the next phase of the conflict in Gaza.
