This morning, Israeli authorities communicated to my national security team that a mission they executed in Gaza has likely resulted in the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar. Subsequent DNA testing has confirmed his death. This marks a significant moment for Israel, the United States, and the global community.
Sinwar, as the head of Hamas, was accountable for the deaths of thousands, including Israelis, Palestinians, Americans, and individuals from over 30 nations. He orchestrated the brutal events of October 7, which involved massacres, rapes, and kidnappings. Under his command, Hamas terrorists invaded Israel with the explicit intent to kill civilians in horrific ways, targeting children in front of their parents and parents in front of their children.
The October 7 attacks resulted in over 1,200 fatalities, making it the deadliest day for Jews since the Holocaust, with 46 American lives lost. Additionally, more than 250 individuals were taken hostage, with 101 still unaccounted for, including seven Americans, four of whom are believed to be alive and held by Hamas. Sinwar bears significant responsibility for this tragedy and subsequent events.
Following the attacks, I directed Special Operations and our intelligence agencies to collaborate closely with Israeli forces to track down Sinwar and other Hamas leaders hiding in Gaza. With our assistance, the Israeli Defense Forces intensified their efforts to locate Hamas leaders, forcing them from their hiding spots and onto the run. This military operation is unique, with Hamas leaders navigating extensive underground tunnels while showing little regard for the civilians affected above ground. Today serves as a reminder that terrorists worldwide cannot evade justice, regardless of time.
To my friends in Israel, this day brings both relief and reflection, reminiscent of the U.S. response following President Obama’s 2011 operation to eliminate Osama Bin Laden.
Israel has every right to dismantle Hamas’ leadership and military capabilities. With Sinwar gone, Hamas is no longer in a position to replicate the events of October 7.
I will soon engage with Prime Minister Netanyahu and other Israeli leaders to extend my congratulations, discuss strategies for securing the release of hostages, and explore avenues to conclude this devastating war that has deeply affected innocent lives.
There lies an opportunity for a “day after” in Gaza without Hamas at the helm, paving the way for a political resolution that promises a brighter future for both Israelis and Palestinians. Yahya Sinwar represented a significant barrier to achieving these goals, a barrier that has now been removed. However, substantial work remains ahead.