Hamas Admits ‘Painful Losses’ as Israeli Drone Footage Shows Leader Sinwar Moments Before Death
Yahya Sinwar recorded hurling wooden board at Israeli drone moments before being killed in IDF strike in Gaza.
Hamas confirmed on Friday the "very painful and distressing" loss of one of its top leaders, Yahya Sinwar, following an Israeli military strike. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) released drone footage capturing Sinwar’s final moments, showing him tossing a wooden board at a drone surveying the damage of an earlier attack in Rafah, Gaza.
IDF Spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari reported that Sinwar was found dead inside a building targeted by the IDF. Soldiers discovered a firearm and nearly $11,000 in cash on his body. "This footage highlights how our military operations are dismantling Hamas’ infrastructure," Hagari said.
Hamas Officials Vow to Continue Fight
In response to Sinwar’s death, Hamas officials expressed grief but doubled down on their commitment to their cause. "Yes, it’s painful to lose beloved leaders, but victory is the inevitable outcome for those who fight for liberty," senior Hamas official Basem Naim said on Friday.
Naim dismissed the notion that killing high-ranking leaders would weaken the organization. "Israel can believe what it wants. This isn’t the first time they’ve made such claims," Naim said, referring to past assassinations of Hamas founders. "Each time, we grow stronger and more popular, and these leaders become icons for future generations to continue the journey toward a free Palestine."
Naim reiterated that Hamas sees itself as a liberation movement. "Hamas is led by people seeking freedom and dignity—something that cannot be destroyed by force."
Netanyahu Declares the ‘Day After Hamas’
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, speaking Thursday after the announcement of Sinwar’s death, emphasized Israel’s intention to permanently end Hamas’ rule in Gaza. "Hamas will no longer govern Gaza," Netanyahu said. "This is the beginning of the day after Hamas, an opportunity for Gaza’s residents to free themselves from its tyranny."
According to reports from Israel Army Radio, Sinwar was killed during a skirmish between Hamas fighters and Israeli soldiers. Soldiers identified several suspected militants in Gaza and opened fire, forcing them to retreat into a building. The IDF then deployed a tank, firing a shell that collapsed the structure.
Video captures Yahya Sinwar's final moments before death:
Video source: NBC News.
Upon entering the ruins, soldiers discovered three bodies, one of which was later confirmed to be Yahya Sinwar.
Symbolic and Strategic Loss for Hamas
Sinwar’s death marks a significant blow for Hamas, as he was one of the group’s most influential leaders. Known for his role in planning operations against Israel, Sinwar’s elimination raises questions about the future direction of the group. However, Hamas insists that the loss of leaders like Sinwar only strengthens its resolve.
The ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel continues to unfold, with both sides locked in a struggle that shows no immediate sign of resolution. As the situation in Gaza intensifies, Israel’s military operations aim not only to neutralize high-profile targets but also to dismantle the broader network of the group’s leadership.
Hagari confirmed that the IDF would continue pursuing Hamas operatives and warned that the campaign to eliminate the group’s leadership is far from over.
Sinwar’s death represents a tactical win for Israel, but for Hamas, it is a symbolic loss that the group claims will inspire future fighters.
This development adds to the complex dynamics of the region, as both Israel and Hamas brace for the next chapter in their prolonged conflict.